Walter Sherwood's Probation

Excerpt: ...dollars with us." "Indeed, sir! I wonder you did not take him." "We should, so far as the money went, but I could see by his appearance that there was no business in him. Our clerk must be quick, sharp, alert. The young man was very much disappointed." "I couldn't deposit any such sum as that, Mr. Locke." "It will not be necessary. Still, twenty-five dollars is very small. You couldn't say thirty, could you? That is merely equal to two weeks' salary." "Yes, sir. I might be willing to deposit thirty dollars. May I ask what business you are interested in?" "We have control for the Western States of a valuable patent-a folding-table-and we have several hundred agents out, who report in general by letter." "That accounts for the small office," thought Walter. "Come here a moment, and I will give you an idea how we carry on business. Here, for instance, is a page devoted to B. Schenck. He is operating for us in Minnesota. You will observe that his remittances for the last four weeks aggregate three hundred and sixty-seven dollars. He has been doing very well, but we have others who do better. On the next page is our account with G. Parker. His month's work amounts to two hundred and eighty-nine dollars." "What would my duties be, sir?" "To keep the office when I am out, receive letters, and answer them, and see agents." "I think I could do that, sir." "Hours from nine to five. I think you will suit me. If at the end of the week I don't find you satisfactory, I will pay you your wages and return your money." "Very well, sir. I accept the position." "You may as well hand me the money, and go to work to-day." Walter drew out thirty dollars, the greater part of his little store, and handed it to Mr. Locke. Mr. Locke tucked it carelessly into his vest pocket, and taking his hat said: "Sit down here, and if any agents come in, tell them I will be back at one o'clock. That is all you will need to do to-day." CHAPTER XVII WALTER'S VISITORS Walter sat down at...