A brief conversation which had taken place on the day previous opened the way for him to do so without seeming to intrude.

The impossibility of getting into business at the present time was admitted, on both sides, fully.

Mr.
Willet then said-- "If the place of salesman in a large jobbing-house would meet your views, I believe I can manage it for you." "I am in no situation," replied Mr.Markland, "to make my own terms with the world.

Standing at the foot of the ladder, I must accept the first means of ascent that offers." "You will, then, take the place ?" "Yes, if the offer is made." "The salary is not as large as I could wish," said Mr.Willet.
"How much ?" "Twelve hundred dollars." "Get it for me, Mr.Willet, and I will be deeply grateful.

That sum will save my children from immediate want." "I wish it were more, for your sake," replied the kind neighbour.
"But I trust it will be the beginning of better things.