He would have preferred to send some one else, for he did not care that Paul should have an opportunity of getting into the good graces of his employer; but he had no choice. This was the boy's duty, and no one else could be spared.
The note related to business on which Mr. Bradford would expect to be consulted.
"Take that," he said, "and come back some time to-day."
"I shall come back as soon as Mr. Bradford releases me."
"Take care you do."
All this was very annoying, and, indeed, insulting, but Paul was judicious, and, while resisting aggression and injustice, knew that he could not make Mr. Manson civil or polite.
Arrived at the house of Mr. Bradford, Paul was shown into the presence of the manufacturer.
"Good-morning, Paul!" said Mr. Bradford, pleasantly.
"Good-morning, sir. I have come with a note from Mr. Manson."
Mr. Bradford took it and read it quickly. He took out a pencil and wrote at the bottom a couple of lines.