"Salmon," said he, "listen. I once got an appointment for a nephew of mine, and it ruined him. If you want half-a-dollar with which to buy a spade, and go out and dig for your living, I'll give it to you cheerfully. But I will not get you a place under Government."
Salmon felt a choking sensation in his throat. He knew his uncle did not mean it for unkindness; but the sentence seemed hard. He arose, speechless for a moment, mechanically brushing his hat.
"Thank you. I will not trouble you for the half-dollar. I shall try to get along without the appointment. Good night, uncle."
"Good night, Salmon." Dudley accompanied him to the door. He must have seen what a blow he had given him. "You think me harsh," he added; "but the time will come when you will see that this is the best advice I could give you."
"Perhaps," said Salmon, stiffly; and be walked away, filled with disappointment and bitterness.
"Well, did he promise it?" asked Williams, who sat up awaiting his return.
He had been thinking he would like to have Salmon in his own room at the Department; but now, seeing how serious he looked, his own countenance fell.
"What! Didn't he give you any encouragement?"
"On the other hand," said Salmon, "he advised me to buy a spade and go to digging for my living! And I shall do it before I ask again for an appointment."
Williams was astonished. He thought the Senator from Vermont must be insane.