"Well, he went before he wanted to. Wasn't just particular in reckoning what belonged to others."
Dave recalled at once the little affair about the two pennies.
"Who's at the light now, Mr. Tolman?"
"Oh, an old hand, who is just piecing me out at this time when I need help. He leaves day after to-morrow. Now, come! I'm up here trying to look somebody up to be my assistant. Can't bring it about at once; but if you'll go and stay a while I think you'll get the berth, and I don't know of anybody I'd like better to have."
"And I should like to come, too, and I will, just as soon as I finish this job."
"Maybe the squire would let you off now."
"I daresay."
"I'd like to take you back with me to-day."
"And I'd like to go, but I'd better finish up."
"You're right, on second thought. The squire wouldn't hesitate a moment, I venture to say; but then people sometimes grant us favours when at the same time they say to themselves, 'I wish they hadn't asked me.' You stay and finish your job."