"Oh, come, don't be mad," said Tom, who began to think Eben might, after all, be a friend worth cultivating. "I dare say it is all as you say, only it seems so odd. Are you working for Mr. Antis yet?"
"Yes, but I am in the mill now."
"In my place, I suppose?" said Tom.
"Not exactly. I have more work to do, and I have more wages."
"Well, I am sure you are welcome," returned Tom. "How do you like it?"
"Very well, so far," said Eben, smiling. "I only went in this morning, and I came right away after breakfast."
"Well, I wonder at that. I expected you would step right into my shoes."
"I believe Mr. Antis wanted me to finish something about the garden. But good-bye, Tom; I must be going, or I shall miss the train."
"I'll go down with you."
"Won't you be wanted at the shop?"