“And you think you would suit us?”

“I’d try, sir,” said I.

“Do you know what our work is?” said Mr Barnacle.

“No, sir, not exactly,” I replied.

“Generally speaking,” mildly put in Mr Merrett, “you’ve a sort of idea.”

“Yes,” said I, not quite sure whether I was telling the truth or not.

Mr Barnacle touched his bell, and the clerk appeared.

“Bring me the invoice-book, Doubleday.”

Mr Doubleday returned directly with a large account-book, which he deposited on the table before the junior partner.

Mr Barnacle pushed it towards me.