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 the cost of several millions of dollars, and gravely waited for Dick to proceed. Dick, in his self absorption, quite missed the point of the little joke.

"Father," he said, with much emphasis, "I've come to have a serious talk about my future. I've come to ask you, once for all, to give me a start in life."

Mr. Spencer looked annoyed. "My dear Dick," he said, "this isn't the place to discuss family matters. And besides," he added, rather lamely, "you know very well that I am on the for you. I shall be as pleased as you when anything turns up."

"Things don't turn up of themselves," Dick answered, stubbornly; "and if you don't mean to lend a hand, I intend to look out for myself."

Mr. Spencer felt thoroughly uncomfortable. It was very irritating to have the "young rascal" take such a tone with him. Yet, as a sort of sop to conscience, he determined to be magnanimous, So he said, not too crossly:

"I don't see what you're in such a hurry about, Dick. You've got plenty of time before you. Youcan't force these things. Come now," he added, persuasively, "why can't you make up your mind to go abroad with the Wheelers as they want you too, and see a little of the world before you buckle down to hard work!"

Clearly Mr. Richard Spencer had forgotten about that bonnet.