Rupert's face brightened.
"Why, that is excellent," he said. "When I was at Tenney & Rhodes' I only received five dollars weekly and had to furnish my own meals."
"True, but you were then in the line of promotion. Here you cannot expect to rise any higher unless you qualify yourself to be a hotel man."
"At any rate I am willing to try it. Where is the hotel?"
"It is the Somerset House, on lower Broadway. It is not a fashionable hotel, but comfortable and of good reputation. I am somewhat acquainted with the office clerk, who was an old schoolmate of mine, and at my request he has given you this position."
"I hope I shall give satisfaction. I shall be a green hand."
"The duties are easily understood and learned. If you show that you are desirous of succeeding you will make a good impression, and you will get on well."
"When am I to commence work?" asked Rupert.
"I will take you down town with me to-morrow morning, and introduce you to Mr. Malcolm, the clerk. I suppose you will be expected to go to work directly."