“What’s this, Hooper?” says Mr. Manning.
“These boys came in here—and I didn’t want you disturbed. I tried to chase them away.”
“Did this boy say he wanted to see me?”
“Yes.”
“Did you ask him why?”
“He said business.”
“Then what do you mean by not telling me? How do you know he isn’t bringing an important message from somebody? After this when people come here and ask for me you consult me before you send them away. Understand?”
“Yes, sir,” says Johnnie.
“It isn’t a message,” says Catty. “It’s business, my own business, and I want to talk to you a few minutes about it.”
“Come in here,” says Mr. Manning, “but if you’re wasting my time you’ll wish you’d stayed out.”