“I don’t mind admitting that your information is valuable, and I’m going to look into it. If I find from indications that are bound to show themselves in a day or two that a pool has apparently been formed, I’ll stake you for one hundred shares; the tip is worth that easily.” “All right! Much obliged,” said the boy, joyfully. “That’s business, and my hundred dollars will give me twenty-five shares more. But you must let me use my own judgment about selling out.” “You’d better let me attend to that, Jack.” “Thanks; but I’ve got my own idea. I’d like to feel independent in the matter. I’ve been studying the market for some time, and if you can shear me of the little wool I’ve got, you’re welcome to do so.” “I shouldn’t want to do that, Jack,” laughed the broker. “And I don’t propose to give you the chance to do it,” grinned the boy. “You’re a case, young man. Drop in and see me in a day or two.” “All right, sir.” And Jack took his leave, feeling that at last he was getting to be of some importance in the Street. CHAPTER XI. THE GREATEST SCARE OF HIS LIFE. When the Exchange closed that afternoon L. S. was quoted at 36⅛. It opened at the same figure on the following morning, and when business was over for the day Jack’s eager eyes noticed that it had advanced only one-half a point. Next day it opened at 37, and during the morning the young speculator managed to drop in on Oliver Bird. “Come inside,” said his friend, the broker. “I want to see you.” Jack hastened into the private den. “Here is a memorandum for one hundred and twenty-five shares of L. S. which I bought for your account at thirty-six and a half, but I’ve made it thirty-six, as that was the figure you ordered the stock at, and as I didn’t buy it till yesterday I had to pay the fraction extra. I’ll hold the stock subject to your order, of course. I’m satisfied that a corner has been formed to bull the stock, and that it will go up to some purpose in a day or two. I stand to win something handsome myself on this deal, and when I’ve cashed in, I’m going to treat you to a Sherry blow-out.” “Well, I hope you’ll make a good thing out of it, Mr. Bird, for you’ve put me in the way of becoming a small capitalist myself.” “You don’t owe me any thanks; it’s all the other way. But recollect you’ve assumed the responsibility of your own deal. I only hope you won’t make a wrong move. After the stock will have reached a certain figure--and what that will be no man can guess--the bottom is liable to drop out at any moment. Should you be caught on the toboggan, your profits will vanish like smoke.” “Yes, sir; I understand that. But I’m out for experience, and I’m banking that it’ll be on the right side.” “Well, my lad, I admire your nerve; but while you have the advantage of inside information at the start, your lack of experience on the market may land you in the soup when you least expect it.”