"When are you going to work?" asked Sam abruptly.

"I am working every day-that is, I am helping Uncle Job."

"But I suppose you mean to get regular work somewhere, don't you?"

"What's he after, I wonder?" thought Ben. "Maybe I do," he said
aloud.

"Perhaps I can throw something in your way," said Sam, in a
patronizing way.

"You are very kind," said Ben, who supposed Sam had heard of some
business position which he could fill. Our hero decided that perhaps
he had misjudged the major's son, and he was prepared to make
amends. "If you get me a position, I shall be much obliged."

"The fact is," said Sam, "I should find it convenient to have a boy
go about with me, and be at my orders. My Cousin Henry has one, and
father says I may engage you."

Ben faced round, and looked steadily at Sam. He felt that he would
far rather work for Deacon Pitkin, in spite of his meager table, or
toil twelve hours a day in his uncle's shoe-shop, than accept such a
place as was now offered him. He penetrated Sam's motive, and felt
incensed with him, though he did not choose to show it.

"What are you willing to pay?" asked Ben, in a businesslike tone.

"Five dollars a month and your board," said Sam. "You'll live better