"I thank you very much for your good opinion of me," said Gerald; "I am afraid you think too well of me."
"It may be so, but I have a good deal of confidence in you."
"I am very young for such a responsible commission."
"That's true. I wish you were older, but that is a matter that cannot be hastened. The sum of it all is, that failing you I know of no one whom I would care to trust. It must be either you or none. Are you willing to undertake the task?"
"Yes, sir, if you think me competent. I am not only willing, but shall be very glad to."
"You are quite sure that you will like it as well as staying with Mr. Tubbs?"
Mr. Nugent said this with a smile.
"I should not be willing to stay with Mr. Tubbs at any rate."
"When do you leave him?"
"To-morrow evening."