that pertained thereto. Of course, the old lady was taking Hiram
a good deal on trust. But she had known the boy almost two years
and he had been faithful and prompt in discharging his debts to
her.

But it was up to the young fellow to "make good." He could not
expect to make any profit for his employer the first year; but he
would be expected to do so the second season, or "show cause."


When these matters were all discussed and the little memorandum
signed, Hiram Strong, in his own room, thought the situation over
very seriously. He was facing the biggest responsibility that he
had obliged to assume in his whole life.

This was no boyish job; it was man's work. He had put his hand
to an agreement that might influence his whole future, and
certainly would make or break his credit as a trustworthy youth
and one of his word.

During these past days Hiram had determined to "get back to the
soil" and to get back to it in a business-like way. He desired
to make good for Mrs. Atterson so that he might some time have
the chance to make good for somebody else on a bigger scale.

He did not propose to be "a one-horse farmer" all his days.



CHAPTER X