“Yes,” answered Harry, with a smile. “He doesn’t care to have his wheel taken off again.”
By this time they had reached the store, and Howard introduced himself to his uncle. The next day the blow fell.
“Harry,” said Mr. Mead, “I’ve got bad news for you. My nephew stands in need of a place, and I can’t afford to keep two boys. I wish I could keep you, too.”
“I see how it is, Mr. Mead,” said Harry, calmly, though his heart sank within him. “Howard has the best right to the place. I trust something will turn up for me.”
“I have been perfectly satisfied with you, and am ready to give you the highest recommendation for honesty and fidelity.”
“Thank you, Mr. Mead.”
“You will stay till Saturday night, of course, unless something else should offer before that.”
Poor Harry! His heart sank within him as he thought of the serious difference which the loss of his wages would make at home. The prospect of another situation was not very good, for Greenville was a small, quiet place, with very few places of business.