“No,” answered Walter, “not exactly. Mr. Locke will be in about one o'clock, and if you will come round a little after that you can talk with him about an agency. I will put in a good word for you,” he added, in a patronizing tone.

“Thank you, sir. I'd like to get a place.”

The youth departed and Walter was left alone. But not for long. A middle-aged man entered and looked inquiringly at Walter.

“Are you Mr. Green?” he asked.

“No, sir.”

“I have seen Mr. Locke, but I thought you might be Mr. Green.”

Walter felt flattered to be taken for one of the firm.

“I am the confidential clerk,” he said. “Can I do anything for you?”

“I wanted to see Mr. Locke and pay him some money.”

“I will take it and receipt for it,” said Walter briskly.