But Master Simon, notwithstanding his elevated position in the firm, was condescending to her; he had more than once done her a favor and had always expressed a lively interest in her welfare.

Therefore she did not scruple to apply to him in the present emergency.
"Well, Katy, in what manner can I serve you ?" inquired Simon, as he elevated his head, and stood picking his teeth before her.
"I want you to do something for me very much indeed." "State your business, Katy." "Dr.Flynch has been to our house to-day, and wants the rent; mother hasn't any money----" "And you wish me to lend you the amount ?" continued Simon, when Katy hesitated to reveal the family trouble.

"It is really unfortunate, Katy; it is after bank hours now, and I don't see that I can accommodate you." "O, I don't want to borrow the money." "Ah, you don't." "I have got a watch here, which belonged to my father; and I want to pawn it for the money to pay the rent." "Well, it is rather out of our line of business to lend money on collateral." "I don't want you to lend it.

I want you to take it to the pawnbroker's.

Mother says I am so young and so small that they might cheat me; and I thought perhaps, may be, you'd be so kind as to go with me." "Go with you!" exclaimed Master Simon, as he eyed her coarse, ill-made garments.
"I thought you would," replied Katy, with a look of disappointment.
"Well, Katy, I shall be very glad to assist you in this matter, but----" Master Simon paused, and glanced again at the unfashionable dress of the suppliant.