"Well; and what then?"
"I have come to apply for the situation."
"You—you apply?" said he, in a tone of surprise.
"Yes, sir," faltered Charlie; "Mr. Walters recommended me to do so."
"Ah, you know Mr. Walters, then," he rejoined.
"Yes, sir; he is a great friend of my father's—we are living with him at present."
"What have you in your portfolio, there?" enquired Mr. Blatchford. Charlie spread before him the sketches he had made during the summer, and also some ornamental designs suitable for the title-pages of books. "Why, these are excellently well done," exclaimed he, after examining them attentively; "who taught you?"
Charlie hereupon briefly related his acquaintance with the artist, and his efforts to obtain employment, and their results, besides many other circumstances connected with himself and family. Mr. Blatchford became deeply interested, and, at the end of a long conversation, delighted Charlie by informing him that if he and his mother could agree as to terms he should be glad to receive him as an apprentice.
Charlie could scarcely believe the evidence of his own ears, and leaving his portfolio on the table was hastening away.
"Stop! stop!" cried Mr. Blatchford, with a smile; "you have not heard all I wish to say. I would be much obliged to your mother if she would call at my house this evening, and then we can settle the matter definitely."