He ventured to give the delicate palm of Nellie a little warmer squeeze than he had ever dared to do before, and looked meaningly in her eyes.

But she was diffident and did not return the pressure, and he was not certain of the precise meaning of the look she gave him at parting.
He felt a trifle uncomfortable, while walking homeward in the crisp moonlight.
"I suppose Nellie would feel quite proud of me if I ever become a rich man; but suppose I don't.

She always was a proud girl, and likely enough will turn up her nose if I fail, which _I won't!_" he added, compressing his lips and walking faster.
Tom found Jim at home and waiting for him.

They sat up late again talking over their grand scheme of seeking their fortune, and even after they retired the hum of their conversation continued until far into the night.
The following morning they turned their backs upon Briggsville forever.
The ride to Philadelphia was not far.

They had decided to stop there for a time, as there was no call for haste.