Part 53 (2/2)
”I see you want a young man, sir.”
”We do.” Most of the pleasantness vanished, and a sharp look came to the man's face. ”You are looking for a situation?”
”Yes, sir.”
”Are you a good writer?”
”I will show you my hand, sir?”
”All right. Here is paper and ink. Write a sheetful as rapidly as you can do so in good style.”
Hal took up the pen. He was really a rapid writer, and in five minutes the job was done. Parsons looked at the work.
”That might do. Have you any recommendations?”
”No, sir. I am a stranger in New York.”
”Ah, a stranger.” A certain pleased look came into the broker's eyes.
”What's your idea of salary?”
”I hardly know. I must support myself.”
”All alone?”
”Yes, sir.”
Parsons appeared better pleased than ever.
”Just the kind of a fellow Allen and I want,” he muttered to himself.
”I will give you a trial on seven dollars a week, and, if you suit, I will raise you to eight.”
”Thank you, sir.”
”What is your name?”
”Frank Hallen,” replied Hal, using the cognomen of one of his poor-house a.s.sociates.
”Very well, Hallen. Are you ready to go to work at once?”
”Yes, sir.”
”Then come inside.”
Hal walked behind the railing, and Parsons showed him where to place his coat and hat.
”Here is a copy of a letter I wish duplicated ten times. You can go to work at this second desk. At one o'clock you can take half an hour for lunch.”
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