“We are stopping at the Hotel of California.”
“I will come round there to-morrow night.”
“All right. You will find us.”
When this conversation was taking place Mr. Burton was out. After the strangers had retired he entered.
“Mr. Burton,” said Tom, “I am going to surprise you.”
“Not unpleasantly, I hope.”
“I leave that to you to decide. I am going to leave your employment.”
“Going to leave me! Have you received a better offer? If you have, I will advance your wages to the same point. I should be very sorry to lose you.”
“I am glad to hear you say that, Mr. Burton, but I have received no better offer, nor am I dissatisfied with my wages.”
“Then why do you wish to leave me?” demanded his employer in surprise.