Joseph was delighted, and yet he knew not what to think.  The haughty Julia had formerly treated him with disdain; but within a week or two her conduct toward him had changed, and she seemed to seek his society, and now she had even asked him to walk with her.  What could it mean?  He was not long kept in ignorance, for in a few words Julia explained her wishes.  “You know, Mr. Dunn,” said she, “that I have money and I am willing to pay you almost any amount, and then it is such a rare opportunity for being revenged upon Fanny, who did abuse you shamefully, and even now makes all manner of fun of you.  It will not be much trouble for you,” she continued, “for you can watch our box, and whenever a letter arrives from Dr. Lacey, you can lay it aside until you have an opportunity of giving it to me, and you can do the same with Fanny’s letters!”

Joseph did not hesitate long, for the love of money was strong in him, and he also had a desire for revenging his fancied insult.  Julia’s manner toward him was not without its effect, for he felt greatly flattered that she should choose him for a confidant; so at last he promised to accede to her proposal on condition that he was well paid.

“It will be well enough,” said Julia, “to let her have three or four letters, as it would not be natural for him to forget her immediately, you know.”

“Oh, yes, ma’am,” said Mr. Dunn, “I understand how to do it.  Never fear but I’ll fix it right.”

“Well, then, here is a part of your pay in advance,” said Julia, as she slipped a ten-dollar note into his hand.  At first he seemed inclined not to take it but finally did so, saying, “I suppose I ought to be paid, for it’s mighty ticklish business.”

After having arranged affairs to her satisfaction, Julia bade Mr. Dunn a very friendly good night, and returned home where she found Fanny employed in writing an answer to Dr. Lacey’s letter.  Here, for the present, we will leave them, until Julia’s plot has time to ripen.

CHAPTER VIII

Mr. Middleton has more callers from new York

The reader will now accompany us to Geneva, one of the most beautiful villages in Western New York.  On arriving at the depot we are beset by a host of runners, who call out lustily, “Temperance House!” “Franklin House!” “Geneva Hotel!” “Carriage to any part of the village for a shilling!” But we prefer walking, and passing up Water Street, and Seneca street, we soon come to Main street, which we follow until we come to a large, elegant mansion, the property of Judge Fulton, who is that evening entertaining a fashionable party.  No matter if we are not invited, we can enter unperceived and note down what is taking place.

Our attention is first directed toward the judge and his accomplished lady, who are doing the honors of the evening.  As we scan their looks closely, we are struck with their features, and we feel sure that to them wealth was not given in vain, and that the beggar never left their door unfed or uncared for.