“I see you don't mean to overwork me, Mr. Melville.”
“No, for it would involve overworking myself.”
“I shall certainly have an easy time,” thought Herbert, as he walked homeward.
He reflected with satisfaction that he was being paid at the rate of a dollar a day, which was quite beyond anything he had ever before earned. Indeed, to-day he had earned sixty cents besides. The sum received for the fish.
After supper Herbert went to the store to purchase some articles for his mother. He was waited on by Mr. Graham in person. As the articles called for would amount to nearly one dollar, the storekeeper said, cautiously: “Of course, you are prepared to pay cash?”
“Certainly, sir,” returned Herbert.
“I mentioned it because I knew your income was small,” said Ebenezer, apologetically.
“It is more than it was last week,” said Herbert, rather enjoying the prospect of surprising the storekeeper.
“Why, you ain't found anything to do, have you?” asked Mr. Graham, his face indicating curiosity.
“Yes, sir; I am engaged as companion by Mr. Melville, who is staying at the hotel.”