"Do you remember what we were talking about, when that
interruption came?" asked Mr. Period, after a pause. "You were
saying, Tom, that you had made up your mind, and that was as far
as you got. What is your answer to my offer?"

"Well," spoke the lad slowly, and with a smile, "I think I
will--"

"Now don't say 'no'"; interrupted the picture man. "If you are
going to say 'no' take five minutes more, or even ten, and think
it over carefully. I want you--"

"I wasn't going to say 'no,'" replied Tom. "I have decided to
accept your offer, and I'll get right at work on the electrical
camera, and see what I can do in the way of getting moving
pictures for you."

"You will? Say, that's great! That's fine! I knew you would
accept, but I was the least bit afraid you might not, without
more urging."

"Of course," began Tom, "it will take--"

"Not another word. Just wait a minute," interrupted Mr. Period
in his breezy fashion. "Take this."

He quickly filled out a check and handed it to Tom.

"Now sign this contract, which merely says that you will do
your best to get pictures for me, and that you won't do it for