"Yes, sir. Because I am willing to work."
"Have you tried to get a position in town? I should think that would be better for a lad of your age than to work in the mines."
"No, sir; I have always wanted to be a miner. I want to start at the bottom and learn the business."
"I am afraid you could not stand it, my lad," answered Mr. Carrhart after brief reflection. "And, besides, as you understand, all the hiring is done by the officials at the mines."
"Yes, sir. But you need have no fear that I shall not be able to do a man's work. I was one of the best athletes in the high school. I was quite frail when I began going to school, but by systematic exercise I have built myself up. I can stand a much greater strain than you would imagine to look at me. If I do not make good they will not keep me. Won't you please give me a chance to try, sir?"
"How would you like to come in the office here?"
"I should like it, of course, sir; but, as I have already said, I prefer to begin at the bottom and work up."
"My lad, you are of the right stuff. You will get on in the world. Not much of anything matters in the face of such determination as yours. The work in the mines is very hard. You will find rough men there and you will meet with more or less temptation, but I believe you are strong enough to keep yourself above it."
"Yes, sir. I am sure of that, sir."