"Oh, no! I thought it would be better for him to enter the employ of a stranger. He is in a bookstore."
There was one great advantage in Pliny's entering the employ of a stranger. He was paid four dollars a week, whereas Mr. Tarbox paid his boy but two. Here, then, was a clear gain of two dollars a week.
"But you must be tired," said Mrs. Tarbox. "You will see the children at supper. Martha, I think Frank would like to go to his room."
The best bedroom was over the parlor. It was rather more cheerful, because lighter.
"Here," said Mr. Tarbox, "you must make yourself at home. Martha, isn't one of the drawers in that bureau empty? I thought so. Take your clothes out of the valise and put them away. Now, is there anything you would like?"
"Only a little water to wash in," said Frank. "You are both very kind."
"We hope to make you comfortable. You are our relative, you know."
The water was brought up by Mrs. Tarbox herself, and Frank was left alone, on the whole well pleased with his reception.