Part 30 (2/2)
”I knew him well. I don't think he was an unprincipled man, but he was certainly imprudent, and was led into acts that were reprehensible. Did he lose all your money for you?”
”Yes, sir.”
”What did you do?”
”Left the boarding school where I was being educated, and came to this city.”
”Did you obtain any employment?”
”Yes, sir; I have been employed for a short time by Otis Goodnow, a merchant of Reade Street.”
”And why did you leave?”
”Because Mr. Goodnow missed some articles from his stock, and I was charged with taking them.”
Rodney was fearful of the effect of his frank confession upon Mr.
Sargent, but the latter soon rea.s.sured him.
”Your honesty in restoring my sister's jewelry is sufficient proof that the charge was unfounded. I shall not let it influence me.”
”Thank you, sir.”
”Now as to the position of teacher, though very young, I don't see why you should not fill it satisfactorily. I will call Arthur.”
He went to the door and called ”Arthur.”
A delicate looking boy with a sweet, intelligent face, came running into the room.
”Do you want me, papa?”
”Yes, Arthur. I have a new friend for you. Will you shake hands with him?”
Arthur, who was not a shy boy, went up at once to Rodney and offered his hand.
”I am glad to see you,” he said.
Rodney smiled. He was quite taken with the young boy.
”What's your name?” the latter asked.
”Rodney Ropes.”
”Are you going to stay and make us a visit?”
Mr. Sargent answered this question.
”Would you like to have Rodney stay?” he asked.
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