ever knew," cried the boy, bursting into tears of gratitude.
Ralph took Earl Danvers home with him when they reached Stanley Junction. His kind-hearted mother was at once interested in the forlorn refugee. They managed to fit him out with some comfortable clothing, and Ralph told him to take a rest of a few days, when he would have him see their lawyer and tell him his story.
Two days later the young fireman reported at the roundhouse for duty, and the ensuing morning started on a new term of service as fireman of the Limited Mail.
The first trip out Griscom was engineer. Ralph noticed that he looked pale and worried. The run to the city was made in a way quite unusual with the brisk and lively veteran railroader. Ralph waited until they were on their way home from the roundhouse that evening. Then he said:
"Mr. Griscom, you have not been your usual self to-day."
"That's true, lad," nodded the engineer gravely.
"Anything the matter especially?"
"Oh, a little extra care on my mind and under the weather a bit besides," sighed Griscom.
"Can I help you in any way?" inquired Ralph.
"No, lad—we must all bear our own troubles."
