Ruby's Reward — page 26: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

CHAPTER IV. J WILL MAKE THE MOST OF MY OPPOR- TUNITY.” Water learned, upon his return to Forest- vale, that Edmund had gone to New York, and would not he back for a week. He was not at all disturbed by this intelhgence, however; indeed he was rather relicved than otherwise, for it would give him an opportunity to mature hip plans without any fear of interference on his part. Ab the appointed hour, the next day, he went again to Mr Conant’s office with the determination to be guided by his advice, even though it should not be exactly in accordance with hig taste or inclination. He found him in, and was instantly en- courancd by the genial manner with which he welcomed him. ‘Well, my young friend,” he cried, as he cordially shook him by the hand; your prompéness speaks well for your intentions, { trusp you have considered well what I said to you yesterday.” “*T think I have, sir,” Walter replied gravely. “las your courage been daunted by the advice which I gave you ?” ‘No, sir. If I can earn an honourable living, end at the same time have a fair pro- spect of realising my aspiration by-and-by, Tam willing to adopt whatever measures may seemhestfor fitting myself for my business ” ‘s'That’s the way to talk; and now for the result of my deliberations and investiya- tions,” returned Mr Conant. “I have an extensive contract on hand that will take nearly a year to complete. 1 have an ex- cellent master-builder in charge, who has consented to take you under his especial supervision and teach you all thabipeteaue