CHAPTER XI.
“I DID NOT MEAN TO BETRAY MYSELF.”
Gerald’s breath was almost taken away by this unexpected proposal. He had heard of the firm of “Lyttleton & Rand,” both members of which were registered as eminent lawyers in New York. He instantly recognized the fact that it would be a great thing for him to become associated with them, while eight hundred dollars, over and above all living expenses, would be quite a leap beyond fifteen dollars a week, and finding himself. Then, too, the prospect of travel and sightseeing was very alluring.
He was dazzled, almost paralyzed, for a moment, by such unexpected good fortune, coming to him just at this time, when he had seemed to be under such a cloud; but he managed to inquire with a good degree of outward composure:
“What will my duties be?”
“Well, I should say something like what they were with Mr. Brewster,” Mr. Lyttleton responded; “the writing of letters, both confidential and ordinary; the keeping of my private accounts; in fact, whatever of a clerical nature would naturally fall to a lawyer’s secretary, and—perfect loyalty and integrity. I warn you, also, that I shall have plenty of work for you to do.”
“I do not mind work,” said Gerald eagerly. “In fact, I like to be a little crowded. I think it keeps up one’s enthusiasm. The position is very tempting, Mr. Lyttleton, but——”
“But what?” demanded the gentleman, eying him sharply.
“I am wondering if it would be quite honest in me to accept it when you really know nothing of me or my qualifications; and going out of the country, too, it might be quite awkward for you if I should not fill the bill.”