Edward Flint was always short of money. He lived extravagantly, and his increased salary was insufficient to meet his wants. When Harry saw him drive a fast horse through the streets on Sundays, and heard him say how often he went to the theatre, what balls and parties he attended--when he observed how elegantly he dressed, and that he wore a gold chain, a costly breastpin and several rings--he did not wonder that he was "short." He lived like a prince, and it seemed as though eight dollars a week would be but a drop in the bucket in meeting his expenses. One day, in his extremity, he applied to Harry for the loan of five dollars. Our hero did not like to encourage his extravagance, but he was good-natured, and could not well avoid doing the favor, especially as Edward wanted the money to pay his board. However, he made it the occasion for a friendly remonstrance, and gave the spendthrift youth some excellent advice. Edward was vexed at the lecture; but, as he obtained the loan, he did not resent the kindly act. About a fortnight after, Edward paid him the money. It consisted of a two-dollar bill and six half dollars. Harry was about to make a further application of his views of duty to his friend's case, when Edward impatiently interrupted him, telling him that, as he had got his money, he need not preach. This was just before Harry went home to dinner. On his return Mr. Wake called him into the private office, and when they had entered he closed and locked the door. Harry regarded this as rather a singular proceeding; but, possessing the entire confidence of his employers, it gave him no uneasiness. "Harry," Mr. Wake began, "we have been losing money from the store for the last year or more. I have missed small sums a great many times." "Indeed!" exclaimed Harry, not knowing whether he was regarded as a confidant or as the suspected person. "To-day I gave a friend of mine several marked coins, with which he purchased some goods. These coins have all been stolen." "Is it possible, sir!" "Now, we have four salesmen besides yourself. Which stole it?" "I can form no idea, sir," returned Harry. "I can only speak for myself." "Oh, well, I had no suspicion it was you," added Mr. Wade, with a smile. "I am going to try the same experiment again; and I want you to keep your eyes on the money drawer all the rest of the afternoon." "I will do so, sir." Mr. Wade took several silver coins from his pocket and scratched them in such a way that they could be readily identified, and then dismissed Harry, with the injunction to be very vigilant. When he came out of the office he perceived that Edward and Charles Wallis were in close conversation. "I say, Harry, what's in the wind?" asked the former, as our hero returned to his position behind the counter.