CHAPTER XVI.
"Good morning! Mr.Clifford," said Joe Gough, entering the store of Paul Clifford, the next day after he joined the Reform Club.

"I have heard that you wanted some one to help you, and I am ready to do anything to make an honest living." "I am very sorry," said Paul, "but I have just engaged a young man belonging to our Club to come this morning." Joe looked sad, but not discouraged, and said, "Mr.Clifford, I want to turn over a new leaf in my life, but everyone does not know that.

Do you know of any situation I can get?
I have been a book-keeper and a salesman in the town of C., where I once lived, but I am willing to begin almost anywhere on the ladder of life, and make it a stepping-stone to something better." There was a tone of earnestness in his voice, and an air of determination, in his manner that favorably impressed Paul Clifford and he replied,---- "I was thinking of a friend of mine who wants a helping hand; but it may not be, after all, the kind of work you prefer.

He wants a porter, but as you say you want to make your position a stepping-stone to something better, if you make up your mind to do your level best, the way may open before you in some more congenial and unexpected quarter.

Wait a few minutes, and I will give you a line to him.