Fame and Fortune

Excerpt: ...if I had the stamps. I'm savin' up my money to go to the Old Bowery to-night." The boys were standing in a little group, and in the interest of their discussion did not observe the approach of James Gilbert, who was now visiting the park with a special object in view. With an expression of satisfaction he recognized the boy who had served him a trick the day before. Indeed, it was not easy to mistake Micky. The blue coat with brass buttons and the faded overalls would have betrayed him, even if his superior height had not distinguished him from his comrades. Had Micky been aware of Gilbert's approach he would have thought it prudent to "change his base;" but, his back being turned, he was taken by surprise. His attention was drawn by a tap on the shoulder, and, looking round, he recognized his enemy, as he regarded him. He started to run, but was withheld by a strong grasp. "Leave me alone, will yer?" he said, ducking his head as if he expected a blow. "I believe you are fond of smoking," said Gilbert, continuing to hold him tight. Micky maintained silence. "And sometimes exchange a poor cigar for a good one?" continued his captor. "It was a mistake," said Micky. "What did you run for, then?" "What you going to do about it, mister?" asked one boy, curiously. "So it was a mistake,