I do not intend, however, to send him money, for he
would misuse it. I don't think it will do him any harm to suffer a
little privation, as a fitting punishment for his wayward courses. I
would not wish him to suffer too much, and I am anxious lest he
should go further astray. I now come to the explanation of my
proposal to you. I wish you to go to California, to seek out
Gregory, obtain his confidence, and then persuade him to give up his
bad course, and come home with you, prepared to lead a worthier
life. Are you willing to undertake it?"
"Yes, sir," answered Hector. "I will undertake it, since you are
willing to place such a responsibility upon me. I will do my best to
accomplish what you desire, but I may fail."
"In that case I will not blame you," answered the merchant.
"What sort of a boy is Gregory? Shall I find it difficult to gain
his confidence?"
"No; he is a youth of very amiable disposition--indeed, he was
generally popular among his companions and associates, but he is
morally weak, and finds it difficult to cope with temptation.
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