these things are worked. Some people say that the
manager just plunges his hand into the heap and takes
the first that comes. Anyhow it was my innings that
time, and I don't ever wish to feel better pleased.
The screw was a pound a week rise, and the duties just
about the same as at Coxon's.

"And now I come to the queer part of the business.
I was in diggings out Hampstead way, 17 Potter's
Terrace. Well, I was sitting doing a smoke that very
evening after I had been promised the appointment,
when up came my landlady with a card which had 'Arthur
Pinner, Financial Agent,' printed upon it. I had
never heard the name before and could not imagine what
he wanted with me; but, of course, I asked her to show
him up. In he walked, a middle-sized, dark-haired,
dark-eyed, black-bearded man, with a touch of the
Sheeny about his nose. He had a brisk kind of way
with him and spoke sharply, like a man who knew the
value of time."

"'Mr. Hall Pycroft, I believe?'" said he.

"'Yes, sir,' I answered, pushing a chair towards him.

"'Lately engaged at Coxon & Woodhouse's?'

"'Yes, sir.'

"'And now on the staff of Mawson's.'