“I am afraid,” said General Wall, dubiously, “that his extreme youth would prevent his succeeding.”
“I was not much older when I commenced teaching, but I got along well.”
“Is the young man desirous of teaching? Is that the object of his coming here?”
“No; he was not certain that there was an opening. He is looking round for some business to occupy him. Being well educated, he thinks he might like to be a teacher.”
“I should prefer that you would remain, Mr. Barclay.”
“Thank you, General Wall; I like teaching, and if my health would allow of it, I would be glad to continue; as it is, I must resign at any rate. I think you had better try this young man.”
“What is his name?”
“Gilbert Howard.”
“Were you previously acquainted with him, Mr. Barclay?”
“No, sir; but from what I have seen of him, I have formed a favorable opinion of him.”