Part 31 (1/2)
”Oh yes.”
”How would you like to have him give you lessons in Latin and other studies?”
”I should like it. I am sure he wouldn't be cross. Are you a teacher, Rodney?”
”I will be your teacher if you are willing to have me.”
”Yes, I should like it. And will you go to walk with me in Central Park?”
”Yes.”
”Then, papa, you may as well engage him. I was afraid you would get a tiresome old man for my teacher.”
”That settles it, Rodney,” said Mr. Sargent, smiling. ”Now, Arthur, run out and I will speak further with Rodney about you.”
”All right, papa.”
”As Arthur seems to like you, I will give you a trial. As he suggested, I should like to have you become his companion as well as teacher.
You will come here at nine o'clock in the morning, and stay till four, taking lunch with your pupil. About the compensation, will you tell me what will be satisfactory to you?”
”I prefer to leave that to you, sir.”
”Then we will say fifteen dollars a week--today is Thursday. Will you present yourself here next Monday morning?”
”Yes, sir.”
”If you would like an advance of salary, you need only say so.”
”Thank you, sir, but I am fairly provided with money for the present.”
”Then nothing more need be said. As I am to meet a gentleman at the Union League Club tonight, I will bid you good evening, and expect to see you on Monday.”
Rodney rose and Mr. Sargent accompanied him to the door, shaking hands with him courteously by way of farewell.
Rodney emerged into the street in a state of joyous excitement. Twenty five dollars in his pocket, and fifteen dollars a week! He could hardly credit his good fortune.
CHAPTER XVII.
JASPER'S PERPLEXITY.
Mike Flynn was overjoyed to hear of Rodney's good fortune.
”Fifteen dollars a week!” he repeated. ”Why you will be rich.”
”Not exactly that, Mike, but it will make me comfortable. By the way, as I have so much more than you, it will only be fair for me to pay the whole rent.”
”No, Rodney, you mustn't do that.”