“In good times it pays me two dollars a day. Lately it has been depressed, and for a time paid me but a dollar and a half.”
“When do you anticipate its revival?”
“That is uncertain. It may be some months first.”
“And, in the mean time, you are willing to undertake some other employment?”
“Yes, sir. I have no objection to any honest employment.”
Mr. Merriam reflected a moment.
“Just at present,” he said, “I have nothing to offer except the post of porter. If that will suit you, you can enter upon the duties to-morrow.”
“I shall be very glad to take it, sir. Anything is better than idleness.”
“Your compensation shall be the same that you have been accustomed to earn by your trade,—two dollars a day.”
“I only received that in the best times,” said Timothy, conscientiously.