Ben felt that it was very inconsiderate, but he would not at first believe that there was anything really wrong. But when ten minutes has passed he became alarmed, and began to blame himself. "Aunt was right," he thought. "I wasn't fit to be trusted with the care of a little girl. What shall I say to Mr. Manning? What shall I do?" He looked about him in despairing bewilderment. Streets radiated from the monument in several different directions. Which should he take? If he took any, there was not more than one chance in four that it would prove the right one. He was still standing there when the gentleman who had gone up with him descended. "Where is the little girl?" he asked. Ben explained his trouble. "Don't be alarmed, my boy," said the gentleman, in a tone of sympathy; "I will help you. Sooner or later we shall hear of the child." "What shall I do?" asked Ben. "It is possible the child may be brought back. I will remain here to receive her if she comes, and you may go and search for her. Come back in about half-an-hour." Ben started on his quest, and with feverish haste he explored street after street, but in vain. With sad heart he retraced his steps to the monument. What was his joy to find Emma returned, and in charge of the gentleman he had left behind and another lady. An explanation was given, to which Ben paid little attention, such was his joy at the recovery of his young charge. "What time is it, sir?" he inquired of his companion. "Five minutes to five." "Then we are too late for the train," exclaimed Ben, in dismay. Chapter XVIII The Envelope "What train?" asked the gentleman. "The five-o'clock train to Milltown." "Is that the last train?" "Yes, sir." "You will have to wait till to-morrow. Will it make much difference?" Ben blushed. "I shall have to stay at a hotel," he said uncomfortably, "and I don't think I have money enough. I did not expect to have that expense." "I can relieve you on that score," said the gentleman. "I live in Charleston, not far away. You shall stay at my house to-night, and go home by the morning train. There is a morning train, isn't there?" "Yes, sir, at half-past ten." "You will accept my invitation?" "Yes, sir, and thank you," said Ben gratefully. "I don't know what I should have done if you had not invited me." "I am glad to have the opportunity of doing you a kindness. I want to send you away with a good impression of Charleston." It was a handsome house to which Ben was led by his new friend. His wife received the two children with unaffected kindness, and soon made them feel at home. During the evening Mr. Somerby, for this was his name, drew out of Ben the particulars of his history and present position. Ben seemed so frank and manly that he was quite pleased with him.