GOOD NEWS The tramp, as we may call him for want of a different name, certainly showed signs of improvement in his personal appearance.

He looked quite respectable, in fact, in a business suit of gray mixed cloth, and would have passed muster in any assemblage.
"I think I have met you before," answered Ben, with a smile.
"Perhaps it would have been more of a compliment not to have recognized me.

I flatter myself that I have changed." "So you have, and for the better." "Thank you.

I believe we rode together when we last met." "Yes," said Ben.
"And you were not sorry to part copy with me--is it not so ?" "I won't contradict you." "Yet I am inclined to be your friend." "I am glad of it," said Ben politely, though, truth to tell, he did not anticipate any particular benefit to accrue from the acquaintance of the speaker.
"I see you don't attach much importance to my offer of friendship.
Yet I can do you an important service." Mr.Taylor, who had been occupying a seat with Ben, here arose.
"You have something to say to my young friend," he said.

"Take my seat." "Don't let me deprive you of it," said the other with a politeness Ben had not deemed him capable of.
"By no means.