A little before half past nine Rodney paused in front of a large five story building on Reade Street occupied by Otis Goodnow.
He entered and found the first floor occupied by quite a large number of clerks and salesmen, and well filled with goods.
“Well, young fellow, what can I do for you?” asked a dapper looking clerk.
“I would like to see Mr. Goodnow.”
“He’s reading his letters. He won’t see you.”
Rodney was provoked.
“Do you decide who is to see him?” he asked.
“You’re impudent, young feller.”
“Am I? Perhaps you will allow Mr. Goodnow to see me, as long as he told me to call here this morning.”
“That’s a different thing,” returned the other in a different tone. “If you’re sure about that you can go to the office in the back part of the room.”