There was a pause, then I heard Jack get off his stool and march boldly to the door. He came out and passed solemnly through our office to the door of Mr Barnacle’s room, which he entered.
Next moment Mr Barnacle came out, very red in the face, and demanded, in a loud voice, “Who is it using the entry-book? Didn’t you hear me say the copies were to be made at once, sir? Let Smith have the book.”
“It’s on his desk,” replied Harris, meekly. “I was only ruling off the last line, to show where the account ended.”
“Copy it at once,” said Mr Barnacle, sharply; “the papers have to be down before twelve, and here’s five minutes wasted already.”
Smith silently went to work, and Mr Barnacle withdrew.
“Vile young sneak!” I heard Harris say; “I’ll pay you out for that!”
“I didn’t want to sneak. You should have given me the book,” replied Jack solemnly.
“I’ll give you something, see if I don’t!” was the reply.
I believe Jack did receive this promised something. He did not come out at mid-day till late, and then he was pale and flurried.
“Has Harris been bullying you?” I said.