"I don't think that will go very far," he said.
"Perhaps not, and, therefore, if you are going to take part in my venture, I suggest that you borrow five hundred dollars."
Henry was surprised once more. He began to think Mr. Hamilton was out of his head. Yet he did not look so. On the contrary, as he smiled kindly upon Henry, he looked what he was, a shrewd, kindly, long-headed man of business. Still, he had just advised an almost penniless boy to borrow five hundred dollars.
"I don't know anybody that would lend me so much money," said Henry.
"Why don't you apply to me?" suggested his employer.
"Would you lend me five hundred dollars?" asked the boy, in surprise.
"Am I to regard that as an application?" inquired Mr. Hamilton.
"Yes, sir," said Henry, "if you think it well for me to borrow it."
"Then I answer yes, upon conditions. First, let me explain why I advise you to borrow. I have little doubt that you will find the venture a profitable one. Next, you may place your savings-bank book in my hands as security. Thirty-five dollars will pay a year's interest on the five hundred dollars I lend you; so my interest is secure."
"But suppose the speculation shouldn't pay, Mr. Hamilton?"