I remembered having heard of
Cecil's death, but never dreamed that it could affect me.
Moreland & Paine! I knew the firm very well; they had large offices in
Lincoln's Inn, and bore a high reputation. Suddenly my heart stood
still. Why, of course, it was a jest--a sorry jest of one of my fellow
clerks. There they were, looking at me with eager, wondering eyes--of
course it was a jest. My heart almost ceased to beat, and I caught my
breath with something like a sob.
They should not laugh at me; they should not read what was passing in my
mind.
I put the letter calmly and deliberately in my pocket and opened my
ledger. I fancied they looked disappointed. Ah! it was but a jest; I
would not think of it.
I worked hard until the dinner hour, and then asked permission to absent
myself for a time. Dinner was not in my thoughts, but I went quickly as
I could walk to the office of Moreland & Paine.
CHAPTER II.
Mr. Paine was not in. Mr. Moreland was in his office. I went up the
stairs, trembling, fearful of being abused for stupidity in taking the
least notice of such a letter.
Mr. Moreland looked up when the clerk announced my name--looked up,
bowed and positively rose from his seat.
Pages:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25