Dick was confused by the clamor, and blushed like a schoolboy giving his
first declamation, so that he was really glad when Mr. Gibbs, seeing his
uneasiness, told him gently that he could go.
That was a proud moment for the bank boy; he felt that he had every
reason to rejoice that a strange Providence had sent him to the
assistance of Bessie and her mother just when they most needed a quick
eye and a ready hand to prevent the fire from spreading; for in a few
minutes, before the servants could have summoned courage enough to
appear in force, it must have gotten beyond control.
He found that there was considerable curiosity shown by the others in
the bank, who had seen his hurried entrance; but Dick had learned to
keep a still tongue, and he said not a word; even when Pliny asked about
his bandaged hand he simply answered that he had burned it a little.
The other looked down and took hold of the outer covering, with a
chuckle.
"What's this, a lady's soft handkerchief, with an initial in the
corner--B; now that stands for Bessie, eh?" he said, looking expectant;
but all he had in return was one of Dick's smiles that might stand for
either yes or no.
But when the bank boy returned from taking the horse to the stable and
then going his regular rounds he found that the directors had left the
bank, apparently in a good humor, for they were smiling and joking among
themselves; and also that every one knew of his recent adventure,
showing that Mr.
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