"Six years ago I was a carpenter; then I became an errand boy in Mr.Dowling's office I had to learn the business, you see.
To-day I am a sort of manager.

In eighteen months' time--perhaps before that if they do not offer me a partnership--I shall start for myself." Once more the subtlest of smiles flickered at the corners of her lips.
"Do they know yet ?" she asked, with faint irony.
"Not yet," he replied, with absolute seriousness.

"They might tell me to go, and I have a few things to learn yet.

I would rather make experiments for some one else than for myself.

I can use the results later; they will help me to make money." She laughed softly and wiped the tears out of her eyes.