"Oh, yes, sir; I can tell calico from silk."
"That's more than I can always do," said Mr. Hunter, jocosely. "I took you for silk, and I find you to be calico."
"You've got me there," said Sam. "Then you can't give me anything to do?"
"I don't think it would be for my advantage to engage you. Do you think so?"
"I think it would be for mine," said Sam. "I guess I will look further."
"I am afraid I don't know much about business," thought Sam. "I wish I knew what I am fit for, and I'd go for it."
He kept on his way down Washington Street, and entered the next large store, where he repeated his request for a place. Here he was not so well treated.
"Clear out, you young loafer!" was the rude response.
"Thank you," said Sam, coolly. "You're extremely polite."
"I don't waste my politeness on such fellows as you," said the clerk, disagreeably.