“Yes,” replied Mr. Perkins—for it was he—eying Walter with a scrutinizing glance.

“I would like to apply for the position.”

“Humph! Do you know anything of the insurance business?”

“Not practically, sir.”

“That's against you.”

“I think I could soon familiarize myself with it so as to make myself useful.”

“How old are you?”

“Very nearly eighteen.”

“Do you live in Chicago?”

“I do now. I have recently come from the East.”