"Fairly well," Manson admitted, reluctantly, the fact being that there had never been a boy in the office so efficient as our hero, the ex-train boy.
"Humph! I am glad to hear that."
"Still it is of course disagreeable to have a boy under me who treats me with insolence."
"Do I understand, then, that you would prefer to have a change?" inquired the manufacturer.
"I don't want to make any trouble, sir," said the book-keeper, who could be polite enough to his employer, "but I should really be glad to have another boy in Paul's place."
"Very well. I have been thinking of making a change myself."
Manson could hardly believe his ears. He had entertained very small hope of effecting his purpose, and Mr. Bradford's ready acquiescence in his wishes filled him with delight.
"If I might venture the suggestion," he added, encouraged by his success, "I should be glad if you would give the place to my nephew Julius."
"I don't know how Julius will suit me," said Mr. Bradford, "but I will try him for a week."
"At ten dollars a week?" suggested Mr. Manson.