“It’s very, very awkward,” said Stan’s father.
“Very,” said his brother. “Quite impossible for me to go now.”
“It is not so much help he asks for as a companion,” said Stan’s father.
“Some one trustworthy whom he can leave in charge for a short time while he is away buying or visiting at one or other of the hongs up the river.”
“Yes, that is the sort of man; but how are we to get such a person without sending to England?”
“But he wants him now, by return boat,” said Uncle Jeff testily. “The fellow must be mad. Here, I have it,” he whispered, leaning across the table.
“You are busy, father. Shall I go?” said Stan, who noticed the movement.
“No,” cried Uncle Jeff sharply, answering for his brother. “Sit down a bit. Perhaps we shall want you.—Here, Oliver,” he whispered; “why not send Stan?”
“What! Oh, he’s too young and inexperienced.”
“Not a bit too young, and the experience will come.”