“No, I suppose not. Your father’s death must be a great blow to her.”
“Yes, sir. It is to all of us.”
“I hope she will soon be feeling better. Health is a blessing we don’t appreciate till we lose it. I have not been feeling very well, lately. In fact, I am not fit to be in the store.”
“Where is Alfred Harper? I have not seen him for a day or two.”
“He has been taken sick, and has gone home. He may be sick some weeks. It is unlucky just now, for I am not fit to be in the store. I wish I could get somebody to take his place for a few weeks.”
Here an idea struck Harry. He was not as old as Alfred Harper, but he was strong, and he thought he might be able to do his work. He decided to suggest it to the store-keeper.
“If you thought I would do,” he said, “I should be glad to come into the store. I have got to go to work now.”
“I am afraid you are too young,” said Mr. Porter, doubtfully. “How old are you?”
“Fifteen, sir.”