“This letter has helped me to a decision.”
Hector regarded him with surprise. What could the letter have to do with him?
“Have you any objection to going out to California by the next steamer?” asked Mr. New-man.
“No, sir,” answered Hector, with animation “Am I to go alone?”
“Yes, alone.”
CHAPTER XXXII. A WAYWARD YOUTH.
It is needless to say that Hector was very much surprised, not to say startled, at this sudden proposal. What could Mr. Newman possibly want him to go to California for? If on business, how did it happen that he trusted a mere boy with so responsible a mission?
The explanation came soon.
“No doubt, you are surprised,” said the merchant, “at the proposal I have made you. I am not prepared myself to say that I am acting with good judgment. In making it, I have obeyed a sudden impulse, which is not always prudent. Yet, in more than one instance, I have found advantage in obeying such an impulse. But to my explanation. By the way, let me first ask you two or three questions. Have you any taste for any kind of liquor?”