"Oh," said Gray, rubbing his chin; "I'd prefer to have it now."
"That's very unfortunate," said George; "I hate to inconvenience anybody. It quite grieves me."
"I dare say it does," Gray said sarcastically. "Perhaps you can tell me when I'll get it."
"That I can," replied his master, cheerfully; "the moment I have the money here for you I'll ring the bell and give it you."
Gray drew himself up and folded his arms. "I take that to be a refusal," he said bluntly. "And I must point out to you the consequences to yourself if I mention it in the right quarter. Now, what's it to be?"
"It's to be five pounds when I ring the bell."
"And suppose I refuse to wait your pleasure?—as I don't see why I should."
"You must do it or go without," replied his master. "I may as well mention, Gray, that I have decided to get rid of those men whom I find to have bad habits. Recognizing myself the principles of truth and temperance, I could not keep men with so little respect for themselves and the good name of a firm like this as to be addicted to the vices."
"I don't see how that will help you," Gray pointed out. "If I am not receiving wages here, I shall be more in need of money than ever, and I should have to make my demands greater. So by sacking me you won't be doing yourself any good."
George waved his hand. "The interview is now closed," he said.