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272 me and have me sent to the reform school, or something like that."

"I don't think she would—not if you promise to turn over a new leaf. I should think you would rather go home than remain where you have to work for nothing."

"I guess I would go home if I had a railroad ticket and some clothes fit to wear. You can see how this suit looks," and Tom Inwold showed up his ragged elbows and patched trousers.

"I'll see if I can do something for you," said Matt.

When Andy came back he told his partner Tom Inwold's story. To this the boy himself added the tale of his hardships while with the rival auctioneers, and added that he was very sorry he had endeavored to do any injury to the stock in the store.

"I believe he means it," said Matt, as he and Andy walked a little to one side. "And I would like to do something for the lad, for his mother's sake as much as his own."

"I think I can fix it," replied Andy. "I'll have a talk with this Gissem."

"He ought to pay the boy something for his work."