"I see you have been making changes even in your short time here," he said, pointing to the store.
"Yes! I think Jake and I did fairly well yesterday," I answered, not a little proudly.
"Splendidly, my boy! And, do you know,—your coming here means a great deal. It is the commencement of a new departure, for your store is going to prove a great boon to the settlers. They have been talking about it and looking forward to it ever since it was first mooted.
"But it will not be altogether smooth sailing for you, for you must keep a close rein on your credit."
It struck me, as he spoke, that he was the very man I was desirous of meeting regarding what I considered would prove my stumbling block.
"Can you spare me half an hour, sir, and have tea with me?" I asked.
"Yes! gladly, for my day's service is over,—all but one call, and a cup of tea is always refreshing."
I showed him inside and set him in my cosiest chair. While I busied with the table things,—washing some dishes as a usual preliminary,—I approached the subject.
"Mr. Auld,—I wished to ask your advice, for I am sure you can assist me. My employer, Mr. Horsfal, has given me a free hand regarding credit to the settlers. I know none of them and I am afraid that, without guidance, I may offend some or land the business in trouble with others. Will you help me, sir?"
"Why—of course, I'll help."