Part 44 (1/2)
”Isn't that a good deal?”
”In proportion to the value of my stock, it is, but I keep turning it over. Last year, after paying rent and all expenses, including wages to a boy of seventeen, who a.s.sisted me, I cleared two thousand dollars.”
To Paul this seemed considerable. It would be a great improvement upon his present position, and he would enjoy much more being the owner of a store than of a street stand. But where would he get the money?
”Couldn't you take less than a thousand dollars down?” he asked.
The man shook his head.
”I need that amount at once,” he said. ”You had better accept my terms. You can't do better. Can't you raise the money somewhere?”
”I will see,” said Paul.
He had thought of Mr. Preston. He knew that Mr. Preston was his friend, and that he was fully able to a.s.sist him. He would go and see him, and consult him about the matter, not directly asking him for help, but giving him an opportunity to offer.
”I will come back to-morrow and give you my answer,” he said.
”Come to-night, if you can.”
”Very well, I will, if possible.”
Paul was fortunate enough to find Mr. Preston in.
”Good-morning, Paul,” said the merchant, pleasantly; ”what can I do for you this morning?”
”I want to consult you on a matter of business, Mr. Preston.”
”I shall be glad to advise you as well as I can.”
Hereupon Paul explained the matter, first displaying the advertis.e.m.e.nt.
”Do you think the shop favorably situated for business?” asked Mr.
Preston.
”Yes, sir.”
”Is it pretty well stocked?”
”Yes, sir. If I had it I might want to increase the stock a little.”
”So the man asks a thousand dollars cash?”
”Yes, sir.”
”How much money have you?”
”Six hundred.”
”Well, Paul, I think favorably of your plan. If you want to take the shop, I will lend you the money you need, and stand security for the remainder.”