"I don't think he has any vacancy,"
Sam looked despondent. Brown appeared to take an interest in him, and he had hoped that he might do something for him.
"But," Brown continued, "I have another plan for you."
"What is it?" asked Sam, his hopes reviving.
"I have a young brother of fourteen at home—there are only two of us; but he is small and delicate. He is lame, besides, having met with an accident when quite young. He is unable to go to school, as it would prove too great a tax upon one in his delicate state of health. He takes lessons at home, however, of a visiting tutor, as in this way his studies can be arranged to suit his varying strength. Now, I have been long of opinion that he requires a boy companion, older than himself, who is naturally lively and cheerful, to share with him in his amusements, to accompany him in his walks, and share with him in his studies. From what I have seen of you, I think you are just the companion my brother wants. Have you any bad habits?"
Sam had shrewdness enough to perceive that it would be better for him to be truthful. Besides, to do him justice, Brown's kindness had made an impression upon him, and he would have felt ashamed to deceive him.
"I am afraid I have," he answered; "but I could get rid of them."
"What are your bad habits?"
"Sometimes I swear," said Sam, candidly.
"Will you give that up?"