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24
BOUND TO BE AN ELECTRICIAN

while uncle is not able to work. You have always supported me since father died, and I owe it to you to do something."

And, afraid that he might be urged to give up his idea, Franklin arose and left the room.

"A worthy boy!" murmured Mr. Bell. "The amount is not large, and by close pinching we might have done without it, but it shows the proper spirit."

"It does, indeed, William," replied Mrs. Bell. "I trust he finds the work suitable. I imagine from now on electrical work will be much in demand."

"Yes, the openings are numerous, and the field is fresh. Franklin takes to it, and I hope from the bottom of my heart he makes a success of it."

Bright and early on the following morning, Franklin presented himself at Silas Fells' workshop. The old man had already arrived, and was placing a number of things in the push-cart, which he soon after directed should be taken over to Mr. Mace's residence.

Franklin took hold with a will. It was his first start in business, and he wished to make a good showing and thus please his employer.

The cart was pushed over through the snow to the Mace mansion, and then the two began to carry things into the house, and deposit them in the hallway.

While Franklin was outside and Mr. Fells in the