make it much easier for themselves in the world, and I have known
many a one to begin his career as a robber who, subsequently, ruled
over men as a grand pacha. Yet I am confident that it is not in this
manner you wish to acquire riches, but as an honest man."

"Yes, as an honest man! I desire to gain honor, magnificence, and
wealth, by the power of my will and my intellect."

"Honor, magnificence, and wealth?" repeated Mr. Lion. "These are
grand words, my boy! It will be very difficult to accomplish so
much, and I can render you no assistance in doing so, yet I will
take you into my business and try to make a merchant of you, if you
wish it."

"Merchant!" repeated the boy, thoughtfully. "I have nothing that I
could sell."

"Yet you can sell yourself. Do not look at me so angrily! I do not
mean that you should sell yourself as a slave, but do business with
your head, your work, and your good-will. Help me to wait on my
customers, to sell goods, and to praise them with pleasing manners,
and I will furnish you with food and clothing, and pay you monthly
wages besides, which you can give to your mother."

"I should have to stand behind the counter, and play the amiable to
people, as I have seen you do?"

"Yes, my son, that you would have to do."

"I should have to listen quietly to the gossips, spread out before