Alger, Horatio | The Cash Boy (1989)

"It was not her fault."

"Of course not. Did she mention that I had advanced her money on the furniture?"

"My mother told me all about it, sir."

"Ahem! You are in a sad condition. But you will be taken care of. You ought to be thankful that there is a home provided for those who have no means."

"What home do you refer to, Deacon Pinkerton?" asked Frank, looking steadily in the face of his visitor.

"I mean the poorhouse, which the town generously provides for those who cannot support themselves."

This was the first intimation Grace had received of the possibility that they would be sent to such a home, and it frightened her.

"Oh, Frank!" she exclaimed, "must we go to the poorhouse?"

"No, Grace; don't be frightened," said