It was true they had. There were more errands to run than one boy could attend to; besides, Harry had proved himself so faithful and so intelligent, that Mr. Wake wished to retain him in the store, to fit him for a salesman.
"You can speak a good word for me, Harry; for I should like to work here," continued Ben.
"I thought you were in—in the—"
Harry did not like to use the offensive expression, and Ben's face darkened when he discovered what the other was going to say.
"Not a word about that," said he. "If you ever mention that little matter, I'll take your life."
"But how was it?"
"My father got me out, and then I ran away. Not a word more, for I had as lief be hung for an old sheep as a lamb."
"There is Mr. Wake; you can apply to him," continued Harry.
Ben walked boldly up to Mr. Wake, and asked for the place. The senior talked with him a few moments, and then retired to his private office, calling Harry as he entered.
"If you say anything, I will be the death of you," whispered Ben, as Harry passed him on his way to the office.