The girls found themselves now in Queen Victoria Street. They reached the house where Mr. Parker’s offices were, went upstairs to the second floor, and presently entered a room where several clerks were busy.
“You must take the initiative now,” said Annie, touching Leslie on the arm. “They know me, for I have been here often; but they do not know you. Go up to one of the clerks and say that you wish to see Mr. Parker.”
Again Leslie found herself hesitating, but then she quickly made up her mind. She must go on with what she meant to do at any cost.
She crossed the room, therefore, quickly, and stood before a desk where an elderly man with gray hair was writing.
“I have come to see Mr. Parker,” said Leslie; “is he in?”
“Mr. Parker is in, miss,” was the reply; “but he is specially engaged.”
“Is he likely to be disengaged soon?” asked Leslie.
“Within half an hour perhaps. He is interviewing some young ladies for a——”
“Oh, I know,” said Annie, who had followed Leslie across the room. “Be quick, Leslie, quick.”
“I want to see Mr. Parker on that very subject,” replied Leslie.