"
"Squire Duncan writes you are to begin at once."
"Shure, I'm afraid I won't succeed."
"I'll tell you what, Tim. I'll help you along till you've got
used to the duties. After a while they'll get easy for you."
"Will you now? You're a good feller, Luke. I thought you
would be mad at losin' the job."
"I am not mad, but I am sorry. I needed the money, but no
doubt you do, also. I have no grudge against you."
Luke had just started in his work. He explained to Tim how
to do it, and remained with him till it was done.
"I'll come again to-morrow, Tim," he said. "I will get you
well started, for I want to make it easy for you."
Tim was by no means a model boy, but he was warm-hearted,
and he was touched by Luke's generous treatment.
"I say, Luke," he exclaimed, "I don't want to take your job.
Say the word, and I'll tell mother and the squire I don't want it."
"No, Tim, it's your duty to help your mother. Take it and
do your best."
On his way home Luke chanced to meet the squire, walking
in his usual dignified manner toward the bank, of which he
was president.
"Squire Duncan," he said, walking up to him in a manly way,
"I would like to speak a word to you.
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