"'Tut, my boy; you know about figures.'

"My head buzzed, and I could hardly sit still in my
chair. But suddenly a little chill of doubt came upon
me.

"'I must be frank with you,' said I. 'Mawson only
gives me two hundred, but Mawson is safe. Now,
really, I know so little about your company that--'

"'Ah, smart, smart!' he cried, in a kind of ecstasy of
delight. 'You are the very man for us. You are not
to be talked over, and quite right, too. Now, here's
a note for a hundred pounds, and if you think that we
can do business you may just slip it into your pocket
as an advance upon your salary.'

"'That is very handsome,' said I. 'When should I take
over my new duties?'

"'Be in Birmingham to-morrow at one,' said he. 'I have
a note in my pocket here which you will take to my
brother. You will find him at 126b Corporation
Street, where the temporary offices of the company are
situated. Of course he must confirm your engagement,
but between ourselves it will be all right.'

"'Really, I hardly know how to express my gratitude,
Mr. Pinner,' said I.