Late at night I might be required to run out into the country with a telegram, and there would be dangers to encounter.

Upon the whole my father said that it was best that I should remain where I was.

He subsequently withdrew his objection, so far as to give me leave to try, and I believe he went to Mr.Hay and consulted with him.

Mr.Hay thought it would be for my advantage, and although, as he said, it would be an inconvenience to him, still he advised that I should try, and if I failed he was kind enough to say that my old place would be open for me.
This being decided, I was asked to go over the river to Pittsburgh and call on Mr.Brooks.My father wished to go with me, and it was settled that he should accompany me as far as the telegraph office, on the corner of Fourth and Wood Streets.

It was a bright, sunshiny morning and this augured well.