CHAPTER IX.
ENEMIES.
Franklin's brief visit to Belden Brice's residence was one full of pleasure. Both the speculator and his httle adopted daughter did all in their power to make him comfortable, and they succeeded to the last degree.
When the elegant repast that was served was over, little Cora was sent off in charge of the housekeeper, and then Franklin followed Mr. Brice into the library, where they sat down to talk over the young electrician's prospects.
"I presume you are anxious to know if I have found a place for you," began Belden Brice, dropping into a comfortable armchair by the open grate, and motioning the boy to a seat opposite.
"Yes, to tell the truth, I am anxious," returned Franklin. "I hate to be idle, and, besides, I cannot afford to be without work."
"I have made inquiries at a number of places, but without success," went on Belden Brice. "I wanted to get you into some first-class electrical establishment, where you might learn all of the
