There was a pause, after which the elder of the two females asked him if he had any father or mother.
And when he said he could not remember either, and that when he asked about them he was told to hold his tongue, since he was an orphan, she started and asked him quickly what part of England he came from.
He said Broxbridge, at which his questioner started, repeating the word after him in a slow, thoughtful manner.
Her emotion did not escape the observation of Alf Purvis.
“You won’t find yourself badly treated here,” said Miss Stanbridge. “If you do, it will be your own fault. I intend to send you out to sell different articles for me, and I shall give you a commission on all you sell.”
“Thank you, marm.”
“Then, as you will get your bed, board, and clothes for nothing, you will be able to put by what money you earn, which, in the course of time, let us hope, will amount to a good round sum. That will be an encouragement for you to persevere.”
“Certainly, marm. I will try my hardest.”
“Good lad. I think we understand one another.”
The boy saluted her with his head and hand.