He held out his hand to her, and there was a note of tenderness in his voice, as he said:
“My young friend, forgive me for taxing your patience and good nature to such an extent, and allow me to say that you have given me more pleasure during this half hour than I have experienced this many a day.”
Brownie gave him her hand, and while holding it, he asked:
“And now will you allow me just one more question?”
She bowed, wondering what was coming next.
“I do not know what your circumstances may be,” he said, with a little embarrassment, “but could you be persuaded to teach?”
“Yes, sir, if I could feel satisfied that I was competent to fill the position offered me,” Brownie replied, frankly.
It had been her desire to teach from the first, but no opportunity had offered, and she had resolved to secure the first situation of whatever nature, if honorable, that she could obtain.
“I am happy to hear it,” returned the old man. “You ought to be a teacher of languages and music. Now, if you will kindly give me your name and address, I will endeavor to call upon you at an early date, and talk with you further regarding the matter.”
Brownie did as requested, and did not fail to notice his start of surprise when she mentioned her connection with the firm of Ware & Coolidge, nor the contraction of his finely shaped brows which followed it.