Horatio Alger

“ McCarty, Rodney's landlady, in response to a ring admitted Mr. James Redwood.
"Does a young man named Ropes lodge here?" he asked.
"Yes, sir."
"I come from the house where he is employed. He has inadvertently left in his room a parcel belonging to us, and I should be glad if you would allow me to go up to his room and take it."
"You see, sir," said Mrs. McCarty in a tone of hesitation, "while you look like a perfect gentleman, I don't know you, and I am not sure whether, in justice to Mr. Ropes, I ought to admit you to his room."
"You are quite right my good lady; I am sure. ”

“ Redwood closed the front door, and went out on the street. "I wonder whether he's a widower."
Being a widow this was quite a natural thought for Mrs. McCarty to indulge in, particularly as Mr. Redwood looked to be a substantial man with a snug income.
Mr. Redwood went back to the store, and went at once to the office.
"Well, Redwood," said Mr. Goodnow, "did you learn anything?"
"Yes, sir."
"Go on."
"I went to the lodging of young Ropes, and was admitted to his room." ”

“ Then I will trouble you to take a look at the cloak, so that you would know it again."
"Certainly, sir. I shall remember it!"
"That is all, Mrs. ----?"
"McCarty, sir."
"Mrs. McCarty, I won't take up any more of your time," and Mr. Redwood started to go down stairs.
"Who shall I tell Mr. Ropes called to see him."
"You needn't say. I will mention the matter to him myself. I am employed in the same store."
"All right sir. Where is the store? I never thought to ask Mr. Ropes." ”