In the midst of his reverie the pompous
servant entered, bringing a letter upon a silver salver.
"A letter, sar," he said.
"That will do. You can go, Augustus."
"Yes, sar."
Mr. Newman glanced at the postmark, tore open the letter, read it
with a frown, and then, as if he had suddenly formed a resolution,
he said:
"This letter has helped me to a decision."
Hector regarded him with surprise. What could the letter have to do
with him?
"Have you any objection to going out to California by the next
steamer?" asked Mr. New-man.
"No, sir," answered Hector, with animation "Am I to go alone?"
"Yes, alone."
CHAPTER XXXII.
A WAYWARD YOUTH.
It is needless to say that Hector was very much surprised, not to
say startled, at this sudden proposal. What could Mr. Newman
possibly want him to go to California for? If on business, how did
it happen that he trusted a mere boy with so responsible a mission?
The explanation came soon.
"No doubt, you are surprised," said the merchant, "at the proposal I
have made you.
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