"We have no friends," was the reply.
"And you won't accept me for a friend?" asked the old man, with a kindly smile. "We have known one another a good many years now, Reardon."
Matthew took the hand extended to him somewhat coldly, as was his wont.
"You have not told me yet," said he, "what you came for."
"You must guess," replied Marshall, rubbing his hands.
"Mr. Heighington has discharged me, perhaps, as he threatened."
"On the contrary, he has raised your wages."
Matthew Reardon, who had been standing until then, sat down hastily. Not only his hands, but his whole frame began to tremble, while the perspiration stood in drops on his pale brow.
"Forgive me," said the old clerk, gently, "for having kept you in suspense."
"It is nothing," replied Matthew; "I shall be all right directly, thank you."