Uncle and nephew shook hands—Mr. Hinchford thought this nephew was a fine young fellow enough—not like his Sid, but a very passable and presentable young fellow notwithstanding.
"We're going to try your cousin as a clerk, Maurice. Any objection?"
"Not in the least," was the ready answer.
"We shall not claim relationship over the ledgers," intimated Geoffry Hinchford; "if he's clever, he'll get on—if he's a fool, he'll get the sack. And we don't expect him, after the general fashion of relations, to cry out, 'See how my uncle and cousin are serving me, their own flesh and blood, by not lifting me over the heads of the staff, and making my fortune at once!'"
"Sid wants no favours, sir," said Mr. Hinchford, sharply.
"After office hours we shall remember that he's a Hinchford, perhaps," said the banker. "Send him when you like, James."
"To-morrow, Geoffry, if you will."
"He's sure to come, I suppose?" asked his brother. "Is he aware of your visit here to-day?"
"No."
"Ah! then it's doubtful, I think. By Gad! I shan't forget in a hurry his sermon to me, and his flourish of trumpets over his own independence."