“We have considered creating a position for you next to Mr. Sproxley,” said the elder Mr. Wetherbee, the second morning following.
Bellair bowed.
“Since you have been with us less than three years, this is very good comment on the character of your services and our hope for your future with us——”
“What additional salary goes with the position?” Bellair had asked.
“If I followed my own inclination, it would be considerable. I have been able to secure for you, however, but a slight increase——”
This was one of Mr. Seth’s little ways. He added hopes of fine quality. There was a further point:
“You will at times handle considerable money and we must insist upon your putting in trust for us the sum of two thousand dollars.”
“I haven’t two thousand dollars, Mr. Wetherbee,” Bellair said.
“Of course, we trust you. It is a form—a form, nevertheless, upon which a valuable relation of this kind should be placed on a business basis.”
Bellair repeated.