Part 49 (2/2)

Solomon Brief

On his arrival in Montreal, Ben ascertained where Mr. Brief's office was, but deferred going to see him. He felt very properly that he ought to attend to the business of his employers first, and then, when he could do so without detriment to their interests look after his own. He was very anxious to succeed. He knew very well that Jones & Porter had serious doubts about the expediency of sending so young a representative to Montreal.

In calling upon different booksellers he exerted himself to the utmost. Though but sixteen, his address was pleasing, his manner self-possessed and he was courteous and gentlemanly, so that he won favorable regards of those with whom he had business relations. The result was that he received quite a number of orders, which he at once sent forward by mail.

Thus three days were spent. On the morning of the fourth, he called at the office of Solomon Brief.

”What do you want, boy?” asked a clerk.

”I want to see Mr. Brief.”

”His time is too valuable to be taken up by boys.”

”If I had a clerk like you I would soon get rid of him.”

”You would, hey?” bl.u.s.tered the young man, advancing threateningly.

Ben didn't budge and the clerk stopped short.

”Did you say you came on business?” he inquired.

”That I will tell Mr. Brief,” said Ben firmly.

”You are from the States, aren't you?”

”Yes.”

”That accounts for your impudence.”

”I should know you were not from the States.”

”Why?”

”Because you are so uncivil.”

”Look here, young fellow, you'd better clear out, if you don't want to get kicked out.”

”Who is to do the kicking?”

”I am.”

”I wouldn't advise you to try it.”

”Why not?”

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