"I watched him with the little fellow, and I could see that he liked children. I am sure he will succeed in this as well as in the duties which he will undertake for me."
"I suppose he will have no objection to the plan?"
"I think he will accept gladly. He has had a hard struggle thus far in maintaining himself, and I can relieve him from all anxiety on that score. I am indebted to him for helping me to recover my bonds, and this will be an excuse for offering him a larger salary than the services of so young a secretary could be expected to command."
"Very well, father. Your plan pleases me very much, and I shall be glad to have Frank commence to-morrow, if he chooses. Now let us return to the library."
While father and daughter were absent Frank had taken from the table a volume of "Macaulay's History," and had become interested in it.
He laid it down upon their return.
Mr. Percival resumed his easy-chair, and said, with a smile.
"My daughter and I have been consulting about you."
Frank bowed, and his hopes rose.
"I suppose you are open to an offer of employment?"