human
Do you think my mother can get the chance?
gpt
I think so. The gentleman of whom I spoke, Mr. Talbot, expects to sail for Europe next Wednesday, by the Cunard Line. So the matter must be decided soon.
human
Shall I call upon Mr. Talbot, asked Paul,
gpt
Here he is, by good luck, said Mr. Preston, as the door opened and an elderly gentleman entered.
human
Talbot, you are just the man I want to see.
gpt
Indeed! I am glad to hear that. What is it?
human
Have you arranged about your house yet?
gpt
No; I came in partly to ask if you knew of any trustworthy family to put in while I am away.
human
I can recommend some one who will suit you, I think, returned Mr. Preston.
gpt
The young man at your side.
human
He hasn't got a family already? inquired Mr. Talbot, with a humorous glance at our hero.
gpt
It seems to me he is rather forward.
human
I believe not, said Mr. Preston, smiling;
gpt
So that you will go bail for him. Well, that seems satisfactory. What is his name?
human
Paul Hoffman.
gpt
Are you in a counting-room?
human
No, sir; I keep a necktie stand below the Astor House.
gpt
I must have seen you in passing. I thought your face looked familiar. How much can you make now at that?
human
From twelve to fifteen dollars a week, sir.
gpt
Very good. That is a good deal more than I made at your age.
human
Or I, added Mr. Preston.
gpt
Paul was burned out yesterday, he added,
human
gpt
I shall be glad to do so, said Mr. Talbot.
human
Your recommendation is sufficient, Mr. Preston. Do you understand the terms proposed?
gpt
Yes, sir, I think so. We are to have our rent free, and in return are to look after the house.
human
That is right. I don't wish the house to remain vacant, as it contains furniture and articles of value, and an empty house always presents temptations to rogues. You will be free to use the basement and the upper floor. When the rest of the house needs cleaning, or anything of that kind, as for instance when I am about to return, it will be done under your or your mother's oversight, but I will pay the bills. Directions will be sent you through my friend Mr. Preston.
gpt
All right, sir, said Paul.
human
How soon would you wish us to come?
gpt
I would like you and your mother to call up this evening and see Mrs. Talbot. You can move in next Tuesday, as we sail for Europe on the following day.
human
Yes, sir,
gpt
I will expect you and your mother this evening. My number is ----.
human
We will be sure to call, sir.
gpt
Oh, by the way, Paul, said Mr. Preston in an interval of the conversation,
human
I don't think I shall need it now, Mr. Preston, answered Paul.
gpt
I have some other money, but I supposed I might have to pay a month's rent in advance. Now that will not be necessary. I will bid you good-morning, sir.
human
Good-morning, Paul. Call on me whenever you need advice or assistance.
gpt
Thank you, sir; I will.
human
That's what I call a good day's work, said Paul to himself in a tone of satisfaction.
gpt
Twenty dollars a month is a good deal to save. We shall grow rich soon at that rate.
human
Well, Paul, what news?
gpt
I've engaged a house, mother.
human
A house? Where?
gpt
On Madison avenue.
human
You are joking, Paul.
gpt
No, I am not, or if I am, it's a good joke, for we are really to live in a nice house on Madison avenue and pay no rent at all.
human
I can't understand it, Paul,