He never does anything right, it seems,"
replied the other, looking at Dick keenly.
"What wages do you pay, in case you needed anyone, and I applied for the
job?"
"Four dollars and find yourself, and no snacking in the store out of the
cracker barrel and cheese bin," came the quick response.
"It strikes me that's pretty small pay for the long hours here, and the
heavy work you require," remarked Dick.
"Kin get lots of help at that price. This ain't Boston, you understand,
and wages is low in Riverview. I'm not askin' anybody to come here. If
Abner goes there'll be jest a dozen arter his job in an hour," replied
the grocer, sarcastically.
"Perhaps there will, but you won't find me among them, Mr. Squires. I'm
willing to work and work hard, but I think a fellow deserves a living
wage. You can't get a woman to come and wash for you at less than a
dollar a day, and they talk of putting the price up a quarter. What are
the hours here?"
"I guess it don't interest you any, young feller. Seems like you be too
high-toned fur this sorter work. Might try the bank and see what Mr.
Harvey Gibbs kin offer you," and so saying Ezra slammed the door shut
behind Dick, thus bringing to a termination the interview that was not
proving very pleasant to him personally.
"Perhaps I am too high in my notions; perhaps my first job has spoiled
me for a three dollar a week position, but it does seem as though all
the chances open to me are going to come from the few men I'd hate to be
with above all others.
Pages:
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41