To do him justice it must be admitted that Mr. Manson was an excellent book-keeper. He understood his business thoroughly, and was rapid and accurate. Personally Mr. Bradford had never liked him, but he appreciated his abilities, and did not allow personal feeling to interfere with retaining him.
"Business is business, and friendship is friendship," the manufacturer said to himself. "There is many a man whom I would like better, who yet might prove very inefficient in my business. I should be foolish to discharge Manson."
So Mr. Manson was likely to retain his place so long as he did not offend his employer in any inexcusable way. Mr. Bradford was a mild man, but when he was roused he could act with decision.
Mr. Manson turned on his stool as Paul entered.
"Well, boy, what do you want?" he asked, in a manner that could not be considered affable.
"Is this Mr. Manson?" asked Paul, removing his hat.
"Yes. Why?" demanded the book-keeper, curtly.
"I come from Mr. Bradford," said our hero.
"Well, deliver your message, and don't take up my time unnecessarily."
Paul felt that he should dislike him, but answered, politely: