If, now, some gentleman in whom I had confidence--someone like
yourself--would undertake the commission, I should esteem
myself fortunate."
"Thank you for the compliment, Mr. Armstrong, more especially
as you are putting confidence in a stranger, but I have important
work to do that would not permit me to leave New York at present.
But I know of someone whom I would employ, if the business were mine."
"Well?"
"Luke Larkin."
"But he is only a boy. He can't be over sixteen."
"He is a sharp boy, however, and would follow instructions."
John Armstrong thought rapidly. He was a man who decided quickly.
"I will take your advice," he said. "As I don't want to have
it supposed that he is in my employ, will you oblige me by writing
to him and preparing him for a journey? Let it be supposed
that he is occupied with a commission for you."
"I will attend to the matter at once."
The next morning Luke received the following letter:
"MY DEAR LUKE: I have some work for you which will occupy
some time and require a journey. You will be well paid.
Bring a supply of underclothing, and assure your mother that
she need feel under no apprehensions about you.
Pages:
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163