"He was very kind," she said, "but oh, Mr. Frank——"
"I know just what you are going to say, Rachel," said Sylvester, good-humoredly. "I am going to have Rupert come and see me often, and he will help keep me straight. And by the way, Rachel, his mother is poor, and I want you to put up some cold meat and other nice things in a basket. I will send them to her."
"I shall be very glad to do so, Mr. Frank."
"You will stand high in Rachel's good graces, Rupert," said Sylvester, as she left the room. "She thinks everything of me, and evidently believes I am safe in your company. Suppose I make you my guardian?"
"I am afraid you wouldn't look up to me with the proper respect, Mr. Sylvester."
"Then for respect we will substitute attachment. Now tell me a little about yourself. How does it happen that you are out of a place?"
"It's the dull times, Mr. Sylvester. I was in the employ of Tenney & Rhodes."
"I know the firm."
"And they would have retained me if business had been good, but I was laid off on Saturday."
"What wages did they pay you?"