Therefore, when, a month later, Frederick came to him with the same proposition, he said he would think about it. Jobs for journeymen caulkers were going to be fewer, wages were coming down. He had this big hulk of a fellow on his hands. No telling what would happen within the next months. Let him try himself. He told Frederick he could have all his time on the following terms: he would be required to pay his master three dollars at the end of each week, board and clothe himself and buy his own caulking tools. Failure in any of these particulars would put an end to the privilege.
His words staggered Frederick. The week just ended had not been good. He had worked only four and a half days. That meant there would be no sixpence for him tonight. They were standing in the kitchen. Frederick had been eating when the master came in.
“Well? Speak up?”
Frederick watched his week’s earning go into the small black pouch. A slight movement from Nada at the stove caused him to look at her. She was forming the word “Yes” with her lips, nodding her head vigorously at him. Mr. Auld spoke complacently.
“You see, being your own boss means more than just keeping your money. Do you want your time or don’t you?”
Frederick’s face did not change expression, but he squared his shoulders.
“Yes, sir,” he said to Mr. Auld. “I’ll take my time.”
“Very well. You can start Monday.” The master joined his wife in the living room. She did not like what he told her.
“You shouldn’t let him,” she frowned over her mending. “They can’t look out after themselves. It’s wicked!”
“He’ll be back.” Mr. Auld settled himself comfortably in his favorite chair. “The young buck’s restless. This will be a good lesson to him.”