"I want to get work; perhaps you have got something for me to do. I am used to horses."
"Well, I don't know as I have."
Major Phillips was a great fat man, rough, vulgar, and profane in his conversation; but he had a kind of sympathizing nature. Though he swore like a pirate sometimes, his heart was in the right place, so far as humanity was concerned.
He took Harry into the counting room of the stable, and questioned him in regard to his past history and future prospects. The latter, however, were just now rather clouded. He told the major his experience in trying to get something to do, and was afraid he should not find a place.
The stable keeper was interested in him and in his story. He swore roundly at the meanness of Jacob Wire and Squire Walker, and commended him for running away.
"Well, my lad, I don't know as I can do much for you. I have three ostlers now, which is quite enough, and all I can afford to pay; but I suppose I can find enough for a boy to do about the house and the stable. How much wages do you expect?"
"Whatever you think I can earn."
"You can't earn much for me just now; but if you are a-mind to try it, I will give you six dollars a month and your board."
"Thank you, sir; I shall be very glad of the chance."
"Very well; but if you work for me, you must get up early in the morning, and be wide awake."