"Trying to catch a thief? How's that?" asked the stout gentleman, his
indignation giving way to curiosity.

"I was selling packages in front of the post office when he and another
boy came up and stole my basket."

"Indeed! What were you selling?"

"Prize packages, sir."

"What was in them?"

"Candy."

"Could you make much that way?"

"About a dollar a day."

"I'd rather have given you a dollar than had you run against me with
such violence. I feel it yet."

"Indeed, sir, I'm very sorry."

"Well, I'll forgive you, under the circumstances. What's your name?"

"Paul Hoffman."

"Well, I hope you'll get back your basket. Some time, if you see me in
the street, come up and let me know. Would you know me again?"