Nicholas flushed a deep red, but his glance did not waver.
"Jerry Pollard wants me in his store, sir."
The judge removed his glasses, wiped them deliberately on his silk handkerchief, put them on again, and regarded the younger man attentively.
"And you wish to go into Jerry Pollard's store?" he inquired.
"I think it is the best thing I can do."
"The best paying thing, I presume?"
"Yes, sir."
"Bless my soul!" exclaimed the judge testily. "What is the world coming to? I suppose Tom will be writing me next that he intends to keep a stall in market. Well, you know best, of course. You may do as you please; but may I ask if you are going to bargain in Latin and multiply by criminal law in Jerry Pollard's store?"
"No, sir."
"Then, what in the—what in the—I really feel the need of a strong expression—what in the world did you take the trouble to educate yourself for?"