Lately it has been
depressed, and for a time paid me but a dollar and a half."
"When do you anticipate its revival?"
"That is uncertain. It may be some months first."
"And, in the mean time, you are willing to undertake some other
employment?"
"Yes, sir. I have no objection to any honest employment."
Mr. Merriam reflected a moment.
"Just at present," he said, "I have nothing to offer except the post
of porter. If that will suit you, you can enter upon the duties
to-morrow."
"I shall be very glad to take it, sir. Anything is better than
idleness."
"Your compensation shall be the same that you have been accustomed
to earn by your trade,--two dollars a day."
"I only received that in the best times," said Timothy,
conscientiously.
"Your services will be worth it. I will expect you, then, to-morrow
morning at eight. You are married, I suppose?"
"Yes, sir. I am blessed with a good wife."
"I am glad of that. Stay a moment."
The merchant went to his desk, and presently returned with a scaled
envelope.
"Give that to your wife," he said.
The interview terminated, and the cooper went home, quite elated by
his success. His present engagement would enable him to bridge over
the dull time, and save him from incurring debt, of which he had a
just horror.
"Just in time," said Mrs. Crump.
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