"You had better accept. You are extremely lucky at your age to get such an office."
"You wouldn't be satisfied with it, Ezra," returned Seth, with a smile.
"I? You are dreaming. What, a well-known and long-established merchant to think of such a salary! You must be insane."
"Yet you are within five years as old as I am, Ezra."
"What does that matter? I take it there is considerable difference between your position and mine."
"Yes, I suppose so."
"To tell the truth, I didn't think you would be able to get any position at all. I hope this won't slip through your fingers."
"Then you advise me to accept it?"
"Of course. You would be crazy not to do so. Remember, you will have to depend upon yourself. The fact that you are a relation will not justify you in asking help from me."
"I have a favor to ask, however, Ezra."