Upon an upright framework hung
a great variety of ties of different colors, most of which were sold at
the uniform price of twenty-five cents each.
Paul was acquainted with the proprietor of the stand, and, having
nothing else to do, determined to stop and speak to him.
CHAPTER VII
A NEW BUSINESS
The proprietor of the necktie stand was a slender, dark-complexioned
young man of about twenty-five, or thereabouts.
His name was George Barry. Paul had known him for over a year, and
whenever he passed his stand was accustomed to stop and speak with him.
"Well, George, how's business?" asked Paul.
"Fair," said Barry. "That isn't what's the matter."
"What is it, then?"
"I'm sick. I ought not to be out here to-day."
"What's the matter with you?"
"I've caught a bad cold, and feel hot and feverish. I ought to be at
home and abed."
"Why don't you go?"
"I can't leave my business."
"It's better to do that than to get a bad sickness."
"I suppose it is. I am afraid I am going to have a fever. One minute I'm
hot, another I'm cold. But I can't afford to close up my business."
"Why don't you get somebody to take your place?"
"I don't know anybody I could get that I could trust. They'd sell my
goods, and make off with the money."
"Can you trust me?" asked Paul, who saw a chance to benefit himself as
well as his friend.
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