Sam heard this, and looked the picture of dismay. He took it for granted that Tony would accept at once, and privately determined that if he did he would give him a flogging, if it were a possible thing.
He was both relieved and surprised when Tony answered:
"I am much obliged to you, Mr. Porter, but I wouldn't like to cut out Sam. Besides, I have a place engaged in New York."
"I would rather have you than Sam, any day."
"Thank you, sir, but I've made an arrangement, and can't break it."
"How long are you going to stay here?"
"If you've a spare room, I'll stay over till to-morrow."
"All right. Go into the office, and they'll give you one."
"I say, Tony," said Sam, after the landlord had gone, "you're a better fellow than I thought you were. I thought you'd take my place when it was offered you."
"You see you were mistaken, Sam. I'll see you again."