“Now,” said Sir Archibald, “it is explicitly understood between us that on or before the first of September you are to turn over to the firm of Armstrong & Company a sufficient quantity of properly cured fish to liquidate this account.”
“Yes, sir,” Archie replied, earnestly; “on or before the first day of September next.”
“You perfectly understand the terms?” Sir Archibald insisted. “You know the nature of this obligation?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Very well, son,” said Sir Archibald; “your honour is involved.” 206
Archie received the two slips of paper. It must be confessed that they burned his fingers a little. It was a good deal to come into possession of all at once––a good deal of money and an awe-inspiring responsibility. Sir Archibald watched the boy’s face narrowly. He seemed to be pleased with what he found there––a little fear, a little anxiety, a great deal of determination. The veteran business man wondered if the boy would sleep as easily as usual that night. Would he wake up fresh and smiling in the morning? These were large cares to lie upon the shoulders of a lad.
“Shall I give you a––well––a receipt––or a note––or anything like that?” Archie asked.
“You are upon your honour,” said his father.
Archie scratched his head in doubt.
“Your honour,” Sir Archibald repeated, smiling.