"Of course I can, Mr. Worth. There's nothing for me to do in the way of preparation but to pack my knapsack and lock my door," answered this "Rough and Ready."
"Very well, then, professor, I like your promptitude. Meet me at Brudenell Hall on Saturday morning at seven o'clock, and in the meantime I will find a conveyance for you."
"All right; thank you, sir; I will be ready."
And Ishmael shook hands with the professor and departed, leaving him hopeful and happy.
At the dinner-table that day, being questioned by his father,
Ishmael told him of the retainer he had engaged.
"Ah, my dear boy, it is just like you to burden yourself with the presence and support of that poor old man, and persuade him—and yourself, too, perhaps—that you are securing the services of an invaluable assistant. And all with no other motive than his welfare," said Mr. Brudenell.
"Indeed, sir, I think it will add to my happiness to have Morris with me. I like and esteem the old man, and I believe that he really will be of much use to me," replied the son.
"Well, I hope so, Ishmael; I hope so."
There was through all his talk a preoccupied air about Mr. Brudenell that troubled his son, who at last said:
"I hope, sir, that you have received no unpleasant news by this mail?"