To Paul this seemed considerable. It would be a great improvement upon his present position, and he would enjoy much more being the owner of a store than of a street stand. But where would he get the money?
"Couldn't you take less than a thousand dollars down?" he asked.
The man shook his head.
"I need that amount at once," he said. "You had better accept my terms. You can't do better. Can't you raise the money somewhere?"
"I will see," said Paul.
He had thought of Mr. Preston. He knew that Mr. Preston was his friend, and that he was fully able to assist him. He would go and see him, and consult him about the matter, not directly asking him for help, but giving him an opportunity to offer.
"I will come back to-morrow and give you my answer," he said.
"Come to-night, if you can."
"Very well, I will, if possible."
Paul was fortunate enough to find Mr. Preston in.