"My name is George Melville. Let me explain my idea to you. I want
your company to relieve my solitude. In your company I shall have
enterprise enough to go hunting and fishing, and follow out in good
faith my doctor's directions. What do you say?"

Herbert smiled.

"I would like that better than being in the post office," he said.
"It would seem like being paid for having a good time."

"How much would you consider your services worth?" asked Mr.
Melville.

"I am content to leave that to you," said Herbert.

"Suppose we say six dollars a week, then?"

"Six dollars a week!" exclaimed Herbert, amazed.

"Isn't that enough?" asked Melville, smiling.

"It is more than I can earn. Mr. Graham thought he was over-paying
me with three dollars a week."

"You will find me a different man from Mr. Graham, Herbert. I am
aware that six dollars is larger pay than is generally given to boys
of your age. But I can afford to pay it, and I have no doubt you
will find the money useful."