Before the officer had a chance to speak to her the old lady broke in with: "Policeman, there's a poor girl been robbed of her purse by that boy, and that gentleman there is protecting him." The policeman laughed. "So, Kate, you have had your purse stolen, have you?" he asked. The girl looked embarrassed. "I may be mistaken," she admitted. "I am afraid you have been up to one of your tricks." "Do you know the girl?" asked the lawyer. "I have arrested her more than once for playing a confidence game. It is only three weeks since I had her up before the Jefferson Market Police Court." "Well, I declare!" exclaimed the old lady, astounded. The girl sprang from her seat when the next station was reached, and hastily left the car. "My boy," said the lawyer, "I must ask your pardon for doubting you even for a moment. This good lady, too, ought to apologize to you." The old lady sniffed contemptuously. "I never apologize to boys," she said. "Then, madam, take care you don't do them injustice," said the lawyer gravely. "I am old enough to manage my own affairs," cried the old lady, with asperity. "You are certainly old enough, but----" "Don't you speak to me again, sir." The lawyer smiled, and crossing the car sat down at Rupert's side. "My boy," he said, "you came near getting into a scrape because you did not know how much the purse contained. Suppose you count the money now." Rupert took out the purse and followed this friendly advice. To his gratification and surprise he found a ten-dollar gold piece and two dollars and a half in silver. His face expressed the joy he felt. "That is a godsend," he said. "Do you think Mr. Sylvester knew about the gold?" "I have no doubt of it. He is a very kind-hearted and generous man. You may keep the money without hesitation." The time soon came when Rupert was to leave the Elevated train. He hurried home with joyful heart, feeling that he was carrying good news. When he entered the little room he found his mother again in an attitude of despondency. "What is the matter, mother?" he asked. "I don't know what we shall do, Rupert," she said. "I went round to Mr. Jacob Grubb's clothing store this afternoon for more work, and he said business was so dull he would not have any more work for a month." "Then you can take a vacation, mother," said Rupert, lightly. "But how shall we live in that case, Rupert? You are out of work." "Mother, don't worry. I have made more to-day than in any week when I had regular work. First, here is a basketful of provisions," and he removed the cover from the basket, displaying the contents. "Have you had supper yet?" "No." "Then suppose you make some tea, and we will have a nice supper." "You didn't buy those provisions, Rupert?" "No, they were given me by a new friend. But that isn't all. What do you say to this?" and he emptied the purse on the table.