Halbert was very honest.
“Well, Sir, to speak truly, no—I have not been thinking of losing time; but no doubt it is very necessary that I should begin.”
“Begin what, Halbert?”
“To maintain myself, Sir; to cease to be a burden—”
“My good Halbert,” said Mossgray, interrupting him, “I should never have spoken of it, if that were all; but Lilias does not hesitate to tell me that I do wrong to keep you undecided so long; so you must let me know what your own views are, and how I can help you most agreeably to yourself. Be honest and tell me frankly; and when I have heard your own ideas, you must give me the privilege of my age, and let me decide.”
There was a pause.
“I suppose,” said Halbert, hesitating a little, “that it must be business?”
“Does your gift lie in that way?” said Mossgray, smiling.
Halbert was a little annoyed, and jealous of ridicule.
“I think I might be able to do as much as I undertook,” he answered, with a little warmth. “All sorts of men succeed in business. I do not think, with submission to your better judgment, Mossgray, that, except perseverance and industry, and a stout heart, there is any very special gift required.”