"He has paid me that compliment before, but I am scarcely a judge."
"You understand bookkeeping?"
"A little."
"Double entry?"
"Yes."
"Quick at accounts?"
"I should think not. I have scarcely had sufficient practice."
"I suppose if you stay on the farm there is no prospect of your rising to anything higher than a day labourer?"
"Not much, I fear."
"Well, now, Mr. Bates, I may as well out with it first as last. I am very much pleased with you; I am, indeed. I cannot forget that you saved my life, and the life of my niece; and I am anxious to help you to something better than being a farm labourer if you will let me. Almost any one can do farm work, and I think you are deserving of something better, because you have educated yourself for it. Now, I shall be glad to take you into my city office, and give you a start in life. I commenced as a clerk at the desk, and what I have accomplished there is no reason why you may not. What do you say, now?"