"I have been thinking," he said, "that it will be better for my ward's health that he should reside in the West. My opinion is that the rough winds of the Atlantic coast may be injurious for him, but I have been puzzled to decide upon a competent man to take charge of him. I am inclined to think that as you have nothing to prevent your going out West, and moreover, are acquainted with the country, it will suit my views to give you the general oversight of Robert. He can board at the same place with you, and go to school."
"What shall I receive for my services?" asked James Cromwell, coming at once to that part of the business which was to him of the greatest importance.
"I have been thinking of that," said the merchant. "How much will it cost to buy out a fair druggist's shop?"
"It might be managed for two or three thousand dollars."
"Two thousand dollars will be quite enough, I am sure. Very well, I am willing to buy you such a business, and allow you besides, a thousand dollars a year for the charge of the boy. Out of this you will pay for his board and clothes, and the balance you can keep for your trouble."
"There won't be much left," grumbled the clerk, though the offer exceeded what he anticipated. Still he wished to make the best bargain he could.
"Half of it will be left," said the merchant; "his board in a Western town won't cost more than two hundred and fifty dollars a year, leaving the same sum for his clothing and miscellaneous expenses. That will consume only one-half of the money, leaving you five hundred, besides what you can make from your business."
"How old is the boy?"
"Fourteen years old."
"Do you think he will be willing to come with me?"