“Thank you. Of course it will terminate, for a time at least your engagement to teach Arthur.”
“I shall be sorry for that, sir, but I am not selfish enough to want you to stay at home on that account.”
“I thought you would feel that way. I wish I could procure you another position before I go, but that is uncertain. I shall, however, pay you a month’s salary in advance in lieu of a notice.”
“That is very liberal, sir.”
“I think it only just. I have been very well pleased with your attention to Arthur, and I know he has profited by your instructions as well as enjoyed your companionship. I hope you have been able to save something.”
“Yes, sir, I have something in the Union Dime Savings Bank.”
“That’s well. You will remain with me one week longer, but the last week Arthur will need for preparations.”
Two weeks later Rodney stood on the pier and watched the stately Etruria steam out into the river. Arthur and his father were on deck, and the little boy waved his handkerchief to his tutor as long as he could see him.
Rodney turned away sadly.
“I have lost a good situation,” he soliloquized. “When shall I get another?”