Arrived in Chicago, Fitzgerald put up at the Sherman House, and of course Robert accompanied him. Our hero was a little puzzled to understand why he had been engaged. Little or nothing was given him to do. Once or twice he had been employed to buy tickets, or go on small errands, but his office seemed to be a sinecure. This would have suited many boys, but Robert was a boy of active temperament, and felt happier to be employed. I may remark here that, in general, nothing is worse for a boy than to be absolutely unemployed, for it is as true as the old proverb expresses itself, that "Satan finds some mischief still for idle hands to do." One day Robert ventured to remark to his employer, "I am afraid, Mr. Fitzgerald, I am not earning my wages; I am quite ready to do more." "That isn't your fault, Robert," said Fitzgerald. "It is true, while we are travelling I don't find much to do; but when we get to our destination I shall keep you more busy." "I am glad of that," said Robert, "for I feel better to be employed." "I believe I have never said anything about the object of my journey," Fitzgerald continued. "No, sir." "I am employed by certain New York parties to look after land and mining investments at the West. I shall have to visit several places, and there will be more or less writing to do, in which I shall employ you. By the way" (they were now in the hotel at Chicago), "I will dictate a letter to you now." "Very well, sir." Robert took out writing materials and Fitzgerald dictated the following: "_Ashley Robinson, Esq., 549 Broadway, New York_: "DEAR SIR: I am not quite sure as to the tenor of my instructions from you. Do I understand that I am empowered to sell your land without further communication with you, or do you wish me to apprise you of any offer I may receive? My own impression is that you ought not to accept less than $5000 for it, as it is sure to increase in value. Please write me at once. "Yours truly, "JOHN FITZGERALD." "It is done," said Robert. "You may go out and mail it. I should prefer that you would take it to the post-office yourself, as it will go quicker than if you mailed it in the hotel, or put it in one of the street boxes. Any one will tell you where the post-office is." Robert went out, well pleased to have something to do, and mailed the letter at the city post-office, as directed. Fitzgerald laughed to himself after the boy went out.