Taking the card, Grant learned that his companion was Mr. Henry
Reynolds and was a broker, with an office in New Street.

"I see you are a broker, sir," said Grant. "Tom Calder wants to get
a place in a broker's office."

"I should prefer that he would try some other broker," said Mr.
Reynolds, smiling. "I don't want a boy who deals with the bucket
shops."

At this point Tom re-entered the car, having finished his cigarette.
Observing that his place had been taken, he sat down at a little
distance.

"When you get ready to take a place," said the broker, "call at my
office, and though I won't promise to give you a place, I shall feel
well disposed to if I can make room for you."

"Thank you, sir," said Grant, gratefully. "I hope if I ever do enter
your employment, I shall merit your confidence."

"I have good hopes of it. By the way, you may as well give me your
name."

"I am Grant Thornton, of Colebrook," said our hero.

Mr. Reynolds entered the name in a little pocket diary, and left the
seat, which Tom Calder immediately took.