"You are doing better than the majority of our agents." In one way this compliment was satisfactory.

In another way it was not encouraging, for it limited his prospects.

Frank began to think that he would never be able to make his entire expenses as a tea agent.
I don't propose to speak in detail of Frank's daily experiences, but only to make mention of any incidents that play an important part in his history.
He was returning from Jersey City on the tenth day of his agency, when in the gentleman's cabin he saw, directly opposite, two persons whom he had reason to remember.
They were Mark Manning and his father.
Little reason as he had to like either, they reminded him of home, and he felt pleased to meet them.
He instantly crossed the cabin, and offered his hand to his stepfather, who had not yet seen him.
"When did you arrive, Mr.Manning ?" he asked.
"Why, it is Frank!" exclaimed Mr.Manning, with an appearance of cordiality.

"Mark, do you see Frank ?" "Yes, I see him," replied Mark, coldly.
"Haven't you anything to say to him ?" asked his father, who was much more of a gentleman than his son.
"How are you ?" said Mark, indifferently.
"Thank you for your kind inquiry," said Frank, more amused than vexed, for he cared very little for his stepbrother's friendship.

"I am in very good health." "And how are you getting along ?" asked his stepfather, with an appearance of interest.