The mere idea that the girl should know that he adored her was distasteful to him. Besides, as his bodily health returned, he began to grow ashamed of his hours of inaction in “the office.” What would she think of him should he continue to remain there? Cost what it would, he must go.
One morning he entered M. Rivals’ house to thank him for all his kindness, and to inform him of his decision.
“You are right,” said the old man; “you are well now bodily and mentally, and you can soon find some employment.”
There was a long silence, and Jack was disturbed by the singular attention with which M. Rivals regarded him. “You have something to say to me,” said the doctor, abruptly.
Jack colored and hesitated.
“I thought,” continued the doctor, “that when a youth was in love with a girl who had no other relation than an old grandfather, the proper thing was to speak to him frankly.”
Jack, without answering, hid his face in his hands.
“Why are you so troubled, my boy?” continued his old friend.
“I did not dare to speak to you,” answered Jack; “I am poor and without any position.”
“You can remedy all this.”