He satisfied! How many a one would be proud to be in the position of Thomas Ashley! William did not say so. He began to speak of Cyril Dare.
"Do you think he will come back again, sir?"
"I do not think he will. Should he do so, the doors are closed to him. He has left of his own accord, and I shall not allow him to return."
"I am very sorry," remarked William. "It has been partly my fault."
"Do not make yourself uneasy. I have tolerated Cyril Dare here; have allowed him to remain on sufferance: and that is the best that can be said of it."
"He may feel it as a blow."
"As a jubilee, you mean. It will be nothing less to him. He has hated the manufactory with all his heart from the moment he first entered it, and is now, if we could see him, kicking up his heels with delight at the emancipation. Cyril Dare my partner!"
William continued his work, saying nothing. Mr. Ashley resumed:
"I must be casting my thoughts around for a fitting substitute to succeed to the post of ambition Cyril coveted. Can you direct me to any quarter, William?"
Mr. Ashley was now standing at William's side, looking at him as he went over the gloves left by Cyril. He saw the red flush mount to his face. Mr. Ashley laid his hand on William's shoulder, and spoke in low tones, full of emotion.