You know that I'm equal to
the job; you can trust me; and I dare say I shall be more useful
than most clerks you could get.'
It was done, most happily done, on the first impulse. A minute
more of pause, and he could not have faced the humiliation. His
face burned, his tongue was parched.
'I'm floored!' cried Carter. 'I shouldn't have thought--but of
course, if you really want it. I can hardly believe yet that
you're serious, Reardon.'
'Why not? Will you promise me the work?'
'Well, yes.'
'When shall I have to begin?'
'The place'll be opened to-morrow week. But how about your
holiday?'
'Oh, let that stand over. It'll be holiday enough to occupy
myself in a new way. An old way, too; I shall enjoy it.'
He laughed merrily, relieved beyond measure at having come to
what seemed an end of his difficulties. For half an hour they
continued to talk over the affair.
'Well, it's a comical idea,' said Carter, as he took his leave,
'but you know your own business best.'
When Amy returned, Reardon allowed her to put the child to bed
before he sought any conversation.
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