And it was aboard one of these modern conveyances that Sidney Wyeth reclined, observing the size and grandeur of the many magnificent residences, that stood back from either side of the street in sumptuous splendor. Magnolias and an occasional palm adorned the yards, while green grass and winter flowers filled the balmy air with a delightful odor. He alighted and found himself very soon in the rear of No. 40. Success was his, for he sold to the girl, and three more at the same number, and the next, and the next--and still the next, until darkness came. Thus he came in touch with people who were more able, and positively, more likely to buy. * * * * * A few days after this he dropped in on Tompkins. "Hello, my friend!" that worthy one said. "Why haven't you been in to see me? I've been thinking of you." "Indeed," said Sidney, in glad surprise. "I've been too busy," he concluded shortly. "Too busy!" echoed the other in evident surprise. And then he waited expectantly. "Oh, sure," Sidney smiled, looking over Tompkins' supply of books, mostly Bibles, for such was the most Tompkins sold, as he learned. "Been selling lots of books?..." "Hundred and sixty-five orders in eight days." "Great goodness," Tompkins exclaimed. He dropped all work for a moment, and stood with mouth wide open. Then he inquired artfully: "Have you _delivered_ any?" "Fifty copies last Saturday and Monday." "_Man!_ Are you telling me the truth!" he exclaimed dubiously. "I _sell_ books," Sidney replied calmly. Tompkins resumed his work in a very thoughtful mood. Presently, as Sidney was leaving he called: "Say, drop in and see me some day when you have time to talk--a long talk. I'm _interested_ in you." CHAPTER FOUR _And He Never Knew_ Weeks had passed. Mildred Latham could be seen sitting dejectedly by the window of her small bed-room, gazing down a street that led to the river. Every day since that next day when she had been told that a man had called to see her, and instinct told her it was Sidney Wyeth, she had sat thus. On this day, however, things were different. There had been a change--a great change in her life; for she was today, and henceforth, free, in a sense, but this is further along in the story.