And now I am
going to see after a fly. A pretty dance I should have had here, if
he had persisted in stopping, bringing him messes and cordials every
half-hour! Which would have worn out first, I wonder--the pavement or
my shoes?"
"Channing," said Mr. Galloway, "let us understand each other. Have you
come here to do anything there may be to do--out of doors as well as
in? In short, to be my clerk as heretofore?"
"Of course I have, sir; until"--Arthur spoke very distinctly--you shall
be able to suit yourself; not longer."
"Then take this paper round to Deering's office, and get it signed. You
will have time to do it before college."
Arthur's answer was to put on his hat, and vault away with the paper.
Jenkins turned to Mr. Galloway as soon as they were alone. "Oh, sir,
keep him in your office!" he earnestly said. "He will soon be of more
value to you than I have ever been!"
"That he will not, Jenkins. Nor any one else."
"Yes, he will, sir! He will be able to replace you in the chapter house
upon any emergency, and I never could do that, you know, sir, not being
a gentleman. When you have him to yourself alone, sir, you will see his
value; and I shall not be missed. He is steady and thoughtful beyond
his years, sir, and every day will make him older."
You forget the charge against him, Jenkins. Until he shall be cleared
of that--if he can be cleared of it--he will not be of great value to
any one; certainly not to me.
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