I pressed him eagerly to tell me all he knew respecting me and my uncle, but he refused to satisfy my earnest inquiries.
The departure of Mr.Bassett, which I regarded as a calamity, proved one of the most fortunate events in my life.
His place was supplied by a gentleman of the name of Harrison, who was strongly recommended to Mr.Moncton by his predecessor as an excellent writer, a man well versed in the law, sober and industrious, and in whose integrity he might place the utmost reliance.

He had no wish to enter into the profession, but only sought to undertake the management of the office as head clerk.
Mr.Moncton was a man who never associated himself with a partner, and regarded despotic rule as the only one that deserved the name.
When Mr.Harrison was introduced _in propria persona_ he did not seem to realize his employer's expectations--who, from Mr.Bassett's description, had evidently looked for an older and more methodical person, and was disappointed in the young and interesting individual who presented himself.

But as he required only a moderate salary for his services, he was engaged on trial for the next three months..