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112 with great attention. When Frank had finished talking, Markham showed by his expression of face that he considered him a pretty smart business boy.

"If you can afford to hang around with me till I get my bearings," added Frank, "I'll guarantee you a comfortable home anyway, and good money if you know how to earn it."

Markham's eyes grew big with excitement. Then his face fell, as he said:

"I'd like nothing better in the world, but business men don't hire strangers without a recommendation. I can give none. I'll be square with you. My name isn't Markham at all. I can't tell you my real one until maybe a long, long time. I wore that moustache partly as a disguise."

"Well, all that is your business, Markham," said Frank.

"I know that, but it must look suspicious to you. If I told you that I am leaving the city to get away from some one who is hunting me, would you feel like trusting me much?"

Frank took his companion's hand in his own and looked him straight in the eyes.

"Markham," he said, "I am willing to put entire confidence in you. I owe you that much, surely. Your secrets are not my business, I would