Three years after quitting the office of Mr. Timmis, I had the inexpressible pleasure of employing him to purchase stock for his errand boy! I was proud as a king.
“I said that boy would turn out well,” said the good-natured Mr. Wallis; “he always had a good principle.”
“And now bids fair,” said Mr. Timmis, “to have both principal and interest.”
Mr. Crobble having lately had a large property left him in Hertfordshire, rarely came to the office above once a-quarter, to settle accounts.
“A good dividend—a very good dividend!” said he, upon receipt of the last quarter's profits. “But, Mr. Mullins, I cannot forget that this business is your child.”
“And I'm happy to say a thriving one,” I replied.
“Are you satisfied—perfectly satisfied?” demanded he.
“Beyond my wishes, sir.”
“I am not,” said he shortly.
“No, sir?” exclaimed I, with surprise.