So saying, the young "dude" sauntered out of the office and left the store, several of the clerks who wished to stand well with their employer bowing deferentially to him. Plantagenet barely acknowledged their bows by a supercilious nod. He did not look upon them as his social equals.
"I am inclined to agree with my son," said the merchant, after Plantagenet had left the office. "I think the country is the best place for you."
"Then, Uncle Nicholas, you won't give me a place in your store?" asked Ben, his face showing his disappointment.
"I will do nothing to encourage you in a step which I consider so ill-advised as coming to the city."
"Then I must bid you good-morning," said Ben, soberly.
"Stay!" said his uncle. "I am willing to make up to you the expense of your trip to the city, on condition that you go back to-day."
He put his hand into his pocket as he spoke.
"Thank you, Uncle Nicholas," said Ben. "I thank you for your offer, but I won't accept it; I shall not go back to Sunderland."
"You won't go back!" gasped the merchant. "What will you do, then?"
"Look elsewhere for a place," said Ben.