Horatio Alger

“ You have been attending school, I suppose."
"Yes, it is not more than two months since I left off school."
"And now I suppose you are thinking of entering upon some business."
"Yes; I have been trying to obtain a place in some merchant's counting-room."
"You think, then, that you would like the career of a merchant?"
"There is nothing that would suit me better." ”

“ Danforth say that he experienced equal difficulty when he came to New York, a poor boy."
Paul looked surprised.
"I see that you are surprised," said Mrs. Danforth, smiling. "You think, perhaps, judging from what you see, that my husband was always rich. But he was the son of a poor farmer, and was obliged to make his own way in the world. By the blessing of God, he has been prospered in business and become rich. ”

“ At any rate, he is doing an extensive business."
"What is his business?"
"He is a merchant."
"A merchant," thought Paul; "that is just what I should like to be, but I don't see much prospect of it."
"How do you like Mrs. Danforth?" inquired the sexton.
"Very much," said Paul, warmly. "She was very kind, and made me feel quite at home in her company."
"I hope she may be disposed to assist you. She can easily do so, in her position."
The next day Paul did not as usual go out in search of a situation. His mind was occupied with thoughts of his coming interview with Mrs. ”