Just then his courage was reinforced by the thought of his motto, and he repeated to himself, “‘Sink or swim, live or die, survive or perish,’” closing the quotation in a manner suited to his circumstances and determination.
After a while they reached Nassau Street, and the number which was mentioned in the letter.
“What is Mr. Fairchild’s business?” inquired Mr. Falkland.
“He is a commission merchant.”
His companion looked rather surprised at this statement, as Nassau Street is scarcely the place where a commission merchant would be likely to establish himself. However, he did not feel called upon to express any opinion on the subject to Harry. It was, no doubt, all right, and he had business of his own to occupy his thoughts. As long as he conducted Harry safely to his destination, he would have done all that he had agreed to do.
They paused at the foot of the staircase, at the bottom of which, on either side, was a sort of directory of names occupying the apartments above. Opposite No. 7 was the name, Lemuel Fairchild.
Harry pointed it out to his companion.
“That is the right name, is it?” asked Mr. Falkland.
“Yes, sir.”