“Yes, sir,” said Tom confidently. “He would have one advantage over an older person.”
“What is that?”
“He would be less likely to excite suspicion of his errand.”
“That is true,” said Mr. Armstrong thoughtfully.
“Then, sir, are you willing to send me?” asked Tom eagerly.
“I am afraid I am not in a position to send anybody,” said the merchant.
“Why not, sir?”
“Do you forget that my estate belongs to my creditors? I am a bankrupt.”
“But your creditors are interested in your finding the clerk.”
“True; but they may consider it a wild-goose chase.”