`` Ten dollars ! '' gasped Jimmy , for the immensity of the sum took his breath away . `` Could I get that ? How long ? Where do we go ? Do they really want us fellows ? Are you sure it 's all true ? '' `` It was all in the paper , and Miss Pym , the teacher who boards at our house , told Ma about it . The folks advertised for school-children , sixty of 'em , and will really pay ; and Ma said I could go and try , and all the money I get I 'm going to put in a bank and have for my own . Do n't you believe me now ? '' Miss Pym and the newspapers settled the matter in Jimmy 's mind , and made him more anxious than before about the other point . `` Do you think I would have any chance ? '' he asked , still holding Will , who seemed inclined for another dance . `` I know you would . Do n't you do splendidly at school ? And did n't they want you for a choir boy , only your mother could n't spare you ? '' answered Will , decidedly ; for Jimmy did love music , and had a sweet little pipe of his own , as she well knew . `` Mother will have to spare me now , if they pay like that . I can work all day and do without sleep to earn money this way . Oh , Will , I 'm so glad you came , for I was just ready to run away to sea .
There did n't seem anything else to do , '' whispered XXXXX in a choky sort of tone , as hopes and fears struggled together in his boyish mind .
Jimmy Ma Mother Pym dance day dollars house paper school-children