"He hasn't got a family already?" inquired Mr. Talbot, with a humorous glance at our hero. "It seems to me he is rather forward."
"I believe not," said Mr. Preston, smiling; "but he has a mother, a very worthy woman, and a little brother. As for my young friend himself, I can recommend him from my own knowledge of his character. In fact, he has done me the honor of making me his banker to the extent of a hundred and fifty dollars."
"So that you will go bail for him. Well, that seems satisfactory. What is his name?"
"Paul Hoffman."
"Are you in a counting-room?" asked Mr. Talbot, turning to Paul.
"No, sir; I keep a necktie stand below the Astor House."
"I must have seen you in passing. I thought your face looked familiar. How much can you make now at that?"
"From twelve to fifteen dollars a week, sir."
"Very good. That is a good deal more than I made at your age."
"Or I," added Mr. Preston. "Paul was burned out yesterday," he added, "and is obliged to seek a new home. When he mentioned this to me, I thought at once that you could make an arrangement for your mutual advantage." "I shall be glad to do so," said Mr. Talbot. "Your recommendation is sufficient, Mr. Preston. Do you understand the terms proposed?" he continued, addressing Paul.