"No. You can tell me your business."
"I have come here to work."
"Oh!"
This exclamation was long-drawn out. Mr. Rich then proceeded to examine Andy from head to foot in a manner which was extremely offensive.
Andy understood that for some reason this man would be his enemy. He would have understood his hostility better had he known that the boy just discharged was the head clerk's nephew.
"I suppose you are well acquainted with the business?" remarked Rich, with a sneer.
"I know nothing about it."
"Humph! you stand a chance of being very useful."
"I hope to become familiar with it soon," said Andy, coloring.
"Suppose you sweep out, to begin with."