"Do you really think so?" asked Walter, gratified, like most boys of his age, at being thought to look older than he really was.
"Yes; at sixteen I was smaller than you now are."
"You see, Mr. Shaw, that, as I am so young, even if I spend a year at this business, I shall not be too old to undertake something else afterwards. In the mean time I shall see something of the world."
"Well, Walter, I won't oppose you. If I had not so much confidence in you, I should warn you of the temptations that are likely to beset your youth, left, as you will be, entirely to yourself. Of course you will be thrown among all kinds of associates."
"Yes, sir; but I think I shall be wise enough to avoid what will do me no good."
"So I hope and believe. Now, what is the name of this publisher you were speaking of?"
"Pusher. He's of the firm of Flint & Pusher."
"I have heard of them. They are an enterprising firm."
"I think I had better start pretty soon, Mr. Shaw. I shall enjoy myself better when I am at work."