He met
many who shook his hand warmly and gave him a pleasant word. He
was in great fear of meeting Polly, and thought of what he should
do and say if he came face to face with her. Among others he met
the school principal.
"Coming back to work?" the latter inquired.
"No, sir; I've got to earn money."
"We need another teacher, and I'll recommend you."
"I'm much obliged, but I couldn't come before the fall term," said
Trove.
"I'll try to keep the place for you," said his friend, as they
parted.
Trove came slowly down the street, thinking how happy he could be
now, if Darrel were free and Polly had only trusted him. Near the
Sign of the Dial he met Thurston Tilly.
"Back again?" Trove inquired.
"Back again. Boss gi'n up farmin'."
"Did he make his fortune?"
"No, he had one give to him."
"Come and tell me about it."
Tilly followed Trove up the old stairway into the little shop.
"Beg yer pardon," said Thurst, turning, as they sat down, "are you
armed?"
"No," said Trove, smiling.
"A man shot me once when I wan't doin' nothin' but tryin' t' tell a
story, an' I don't take no chances. Do you remember my boss
tellin' that night in the woods how he lost his money in the fire
o' '35?"
"Yes.
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