"Young man," said Mr. Fitch sternly, "this is trifling, and my time
is too valuable for such discussion. Have you, or have you not,
brought fifty dollars with you?"

"I have."

"Then you can secure the place-a place such as few New York boys are
fortunate enough to fill. You must decide for yourself."

He threw himself back in his chair and looked at Ben.

"He seems very anxious about the money," thought our hero, "and I
don't see any signs of any business. I'd better back out."

"There are plenty of boys who want the place," continued Fitch,
trying to look indifferent.

"I guess you can give it to one of them," said Ben coolly.

Mr. Fitch could not conceal his disappointment. The fifty dollars
had a great attraction for him. He saw that Ben was in earnest, for
he was already opening the door to go out. He must make an effort to
detain him.

"Wait a moment, my young friend. I like your appearance, and we may
be disposed to take you on a little easier terms. Fifty dollars is
probably a large sum to you."

Ben admitted that it was.