In the morning he decided to seek for a situation. A very reasonable instinct led him to avoid all such houses as Messrs. Waddington & Forbes. He made his way instead to the offices of a firm who were quite at the top of their profession. A junior partner accorded him a moment's interview. He was civil but to the point.
"There is no opening whatever in this firm," he declared, "for any one who has been in the employment of Messrs. Waddington & Forbes. Good morning!"
On the doorstep, Burton ran into the arms of Mr. Lynn, who recognized him at once.
"Say, young man," he exclaimed, holding out his hand, "I am much obliged for that recommendation of yours to these people! I have taken a house in Connaught Place—a real nice house it is, too. Come and see us—number 17. The wife and daughters land to-morrow."
"Thank you very much," Burton answered. "I am glad you are fixed up comfortably."
Mr. Lynn laid his hand upon the young man's shoulder. He looked at him curiously. He was an observant person and much interested in his fellow-creatures.
"Kind of change in you, isn't there?" he asked, in a puzzled manner. "I scarcely recognized you at first."
Burton made no reply. The conventional falsehood which rose to his lips, died away before it was uttered.
"Look here," Mr. Lynn continued, "you take a word of advice from me. You chuck those people, Waddington & Forbes. They're wrong 'uns—won't do you a bit of good. Get another job. So long, and don't forget to look us up."
Mr. Lynn passed on his way into the office. He ran into the junior partner, who greeted him warmly.