F. Yes, characteristic, I dare say. Accept the first chance? No indeed; not as long as I have fifty-nine more left. (Opens another letter.) But what is this?
E. I’m all attention.
F. (reading). Mr. Forrester: “I notice by my paper that you want to learn to farm. I should like to teach you ‘what I know about farming.’ It would take some time to do it, but I would warrant you a good knowledge of farming in six years. You couldn’t fail to get a thorough knowledge of the business, as I should let you do all the work. My health is poor, and I am only able to oversee the work. As you want a situation, you may as well consider yourself engaged. I shall expect you next Monday. Horace Gregory.”
F. Well! that’s cool! I am afraid that man is troubled by a disease called indolence. But, Ed, we are getting along too slowly. Suppose you and I read letters as fast as we can, and if either of us finds one that we consider suitable it shall be read aloud. If not, it shall be thrown into the waste basket.
E. Agreed.
(They look over letters very hurriedly, occasionally laughing aloud as they read something which excites their mirth. At length Edwin says:)
E. Here, Frank, here’s just the place for you. Shall I read?
F. Do so by all means. I am nearly discouraged.
E. (reading). “Franklin Forrester, Esq.—Dear Sir: Uncle William wishes me to write to you concerning an advertisement of yours which he read in our paper. He judges from it that you are not accustomed to working on a farm. He has already two men, but wishes a little more help, provided arrangements satisfactory to both parties could be made. He is willing to pay whatever is reasonable as regard wages, but not knowing how much you can do, he can say nothing more definite. If you wish any further information, a letter directed to William Leighton, Ballardvale, Vermont, will receive prompt attention. But if you prefer to come without writing, uncle will be glad to see you at any time after the receipt of this letter.”
F. (eagerly). What is the signature?