THE THREE YOUNG MEN It was beginning to be daylight in the city of Boston; and as the gray east gradually brightened and grew red in the coming of day, a young man looked out upon the busy world around him, with that feeling of utter loneliness which one so often feels in a great city where all is new and strange to him.

Scarcely four weeks had passed since the notes of a tolling bell had fallen sadly upon his ear, and he had looked into a grave where they laid his mother to her last dreamless rest.

A prevailing fever had effected what the fancied ailments of years had failed to do, and Billy Bender was now an orphan, and alone in the wide world.

He knew that he had his own fortune to make, and after settling his mother's affairs and finding there was nothing left for him, he had come to the city, and on the morning which we have mentioned went forth alone to look for employment, with no other recommendation than the frank, honest expression of his handsome face.
It was rather discouraging, wearisome work, and Billy's heart began to misgive him as one after another refused his request.
"It was foolish in me to attempt it," thought he, as he stopped once more in front of a large wholesale establishment on M---- street.
Just then his eye caught the sign on which was lettered, "R.J.

Selden & Co." The name sounded familiar, and something whispered to him to enter.