"I didn't find the letters in the hall," he said, seeing Toney. Then his glance fell on the writing table. "What—are those—letters? Impossible!"
Toney had to confess.
"They have exceeded my greatest expectations I assure you."
"Hundreds!" murmured the secretary.
"Yes, I haven't counted them. It's in answer to this advertisement," and Toney read it out. "You know I've heaps of money and I've got to give it away; but it will take a lot of time, attention, and trouble. Anyhow, I've prepared myself for it, and you see how much I want your help."
"Yes, I see." He looked hopelessly at the table. "I thought you wanted an ordinary secretary."
"Oh, no, I don't want anything ordinary. It's a glorious work and you'll find it so. We must tabulate these first, some will be quite hopeless, but lots will want immediate help till we can house them."
"House them, where?" said Mr. Russell, roused from his lethargy into positive dread.
"Oh, yes, of course, house them. I've got the plans all ready in a rough way, and when I've got the land we can go ahead. It will be just beautiful!"
"Beautiful—in what way?"