“Why?” said Stan quietly.
“Because I’m showing you all about the management of the men that it has taken me much study and patience to acquire.”
“I’m sure it must have,” said Stan eagerly.
“Well, then, am I not a donkey to teach you till you know as much as I do?”
“Certainly not,” said Stan warmly.
“Then I think I am, my fine fellow; but we will not quarrel about it.”
“No; for one can’t,” said Stan, laughing, “and I shall not.”
“Nor I, my lad, but I shall think a great deal; but it’s weak all the same. As soon as I have made you fit to manage here, I shall be packed off and you’ll be pitchforked into my post.”
“I don’t think it is likely that my father would put an inexperienced boy to perform the duties of one like you,” said Stan quietly; “and I’m sure neither father nor uncle would behave unfairly to any one.”
“Good boy!” said the manager sharply, and with one of his half-mocking smiles. “Always stick up for your own people. But, to be fair, I think just the same as yourself. They wouldn’t, and I know them better than you do. But to change the conversation. Look here; as soon as old Wing comes back, I’m going to send him right up the country among our trading people upon another expedition. You have to learn, and I’ve been thinking that you may as well begin to pick up business and the knowledge of the people at once. What do you say to going up the river lands and gardens along with him?”