"It doesn't exactly fit," said the major; "but it can be let out
easily. I will send it to Miss Pearce--the village tailoress--to fix
it over for you."

"Thank you, Major Norton," said Joe, in a decided tone, "but I hope
you won't go to that expense, for I shall not be willing to wear it
under any circumstances."

"I cannot believe my ears," said Major Norton, with dignified
displeasure. "How old are you, Joseph?"

"Fifteen, sir."

"It is not fitting that you, a boy of fifteen, should dictate to your
employer."

"I don't wish to, Major Norton, but I am not willing to wear that
suit."

"You are too proud. Your pride needs taking down."

"Major Norton," said Joe firmly, "I should like to tell you how I
feel. You are my employer, and I am your hired boy. I try to do my
duty by you."

"You are a good boy to work, Joseph. I don't complain of that."

"You agreed to give me board and clothing for my services."