"Eleven years old, sir."
The farmer surveyed approvingly the sturdy frame, broad shoulders, and muscular arms of the boy, and said, after a pause, "You look pretty strong of your age."
"Oh, yes, sir," answered Thomas, complacently "I am strong."
"And you are used to farm work?"
"Yes, sir. I do about all the outdoor work at home, being the only boy. Of course, there is Jimmy, but he is only four, and that's too young to work on the farm."
"What does he want?" thought Thomas.
He soon learned.
"I need help on my farm, and I guess you will suit me," said Mr. Conrad, though that was not his name. In fact, I don't know his name, but that will do as well as any other.
"I don't know whether mother can spare me, but I can ask her," said Thomas. "What are you willing to pay?"
"I'll give you twelve dollars a month, but you'll have to make long days."