"I will wait at any rate till I receive an invitation," answered Robert, smiling, for he did not feel in the least sensitive about the malicious contempt which Ronald professed to feel for him. "When will you start, Robert?" "To-morrow morning. Mr. Fitzgerald seems to be in a hurry, and there is no good reason for delay. My foot is well enough for all ordinary use, though it would give out if I should attempt riding." When Dr. Grey was shown the letter Robert had received, he looked puzzled. "Certainly the chance seems to be a good one," he said, "and doubtless it will be well to accept it. It is certainly a remarkable piece of luck." "So I consider it," said Robert. "I mean, that it is like the events in a story that you should have such a chance offer from an absolute stranger, just as you stand in need of it. I should like to see this Mr. Fitzgerald," he continued, thoughtfully. "I think I heard that there was a man of that name staying at the hotel about a week since," said Sidney. "He says he was present when Robert met with his accident." "Then it is probably the same one. Then you have decided to accept, my boy?" "Yes, sir; I shall go to New York to-morrow." "It may be as well. But one thing I want to say: if the engagement doesn't prove satisfactory, or you are ever again thrown upon your own resources, come back to us and you will have a cordial welcome." "Yes, Rob, you may be sure of that," said Sidney, eagerly. "You are both very kind to me," returned Robert, gratefully, "and I will take you at your word. By the way, Dr. Grey, I want to ask you a favor." "It is granted as soon as asked, my boy." "It is only to keep the two hundred dollars I have saved up for the present. It will be safer in your hands than mine, and I shan't need it, as all my expenses are to be paid by my new employer, and five dollars a week besides." "I will keep it for you if you desire." "Thank you; if I had it I might have it stolen from me, and besides it would make me uncomfortable to feel that I had so much money about me." "I see you are prudent. I have one good reason for keeping it, as you will one day come back and reclaim it." The next morning Robert started for New York. CHAPTER XXIV. ROBERT MEETS HIS EMPLOYER. Robert Rudd had been in New York more than once, and he therefore had no difficulty in finding out the fine hotel on Broadway known as the St. Nicholas. He entered it, and, walking up to the desk, inquired, "Is Mr. John Fitzgerald staying here?" "Yes," answered the clerk. "Do you wish to see him?" "If you please." "Then write your name on a card and I will send it up." Robert did so. "See if No. 35 is in," said the clerk, calling a hall boy, and handing him the card. In five minutes the hall boy came back, saying: "Mr. Fitzgerald wants the young gentleman to come up." Robert followed him to a room on the third floor and knocked at the door. "Come in," was heard from the interior.