Could I take it?
I replied that I would try if they would send slowly.

I succeeded in getting the message and ran out with it.

I waited anxiously for Mr.Brooks to come in, and told him what I had dared to do.

Fortunately, he appreciated it and complimented me, instead of scolding me for my temerity; yet dismissing me with the admonition to be very careful and not to make mistakes.

It was not long before I was called sometimes to watch the instrument, while the operator wished to be absent, and in this way I learned the art of telegraphy.
We were blessed at this time with a rather indolent operator, who was only too glad to have me do his work.