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44 and the one before that, a man, didn't stay the week out," grinned Matt. "They soon find out what kind of a man he is."

"I would leave to-morrow, only I cannot afford to be out of work, and times are somewhat dull. But, about your proposed venture. You will need sixty dollars more to hold an equal share if you go in, won't you?"

"Yes."

Ida Bartlett meditated for a moment.

"Perhaps I might let you have that money," she said slowly.

"Why—I—I—have you got it?" stammered Matt.

"Yes; I and my two sisters have saved quite a bit out of our earnings, you must know. I'll have to ask Kate and Jennie and mother first. If they are willing, I'll let you have the sixty dollars, and then you and this Dilks can form an equal partnership."

"You are very kind," exclaimed the boy warmly, for the offer was entirely unexpected.

"No more than I ought to be, Matt. You saved me from great annoyance this noon, and I have not forgotten the many favors you have done me from time to time. When did you say you were to meet this Dilks?"