Melville, "by the nature of your suggestion. I won't take into
consideration the question whether you have thought more of your own
pleasure or mine. So far as the latter is concerned, you have made a
mistake in supposing that Herbert's youth is any drawback to his
qualification as a companion. Indeed, his youth and cheerful
temperament make him more attractive in my eyes. I hope, Mr. Graham,
you will excuse me for saying that he suits me better than you
possibly could."

Eben's countenance fell, and he looked quite discomfited and
mortified.

"I didn't suppose a raw, country boy would be likely to suit a
gentleman of taste, who has resided in the city," he said, with
asperity.

"Then you will have a chance to correct your impression," said
Melville, with a slight smile.

"Then you don't care to accept my offer?" said Eben, regretfully.

"Thank you, no. If you will excuse me for suggesting it, Mr. Graham,
it would have been more considerate for you to have apprised Herbert
of your object in asking him to take your place this evening.
Probably he had no idea that you meant to supersede him with me."

Eben tossed his head.

"You mustn't think, Mr. Melville," he said, "that I was after the
extra pay. Six dollars doesn't seem much to me. I was earning ten