 time. It's because I have tried to
do so that - well, practically, I have broken down. If you will give me this
clerkship, it will relieve me from the necessity of perpetually writing novels;
I shall be better for it in every way. You know that I'm equal to the job; you
can trust me; and I dare say I shall be more useful than most clerks you could
get.«
    It was done, most happily done, on the first impulse. A minute more of
pause, and he could not have faced the humiliation. His face burned, his tongue
was parched.
    »I'm floored!« cried Carter. »I shouldn't have thought - but of course, if
you really want it. I can hardly believe yet that you're serious, Reardon.«
    »Why not? Will you promise me the work?«
    »Well, yes.«
    »When shall I have to begin?«
    »The place 'll be opened to-morrow week. But how about your holiday?«
    »Oh, let that stand over. It'll be holiday enough to occupy myself in a new
way. An old way, too; I shall enjoy it.«
    He laughed merrily, relieved beyond measure at having come to what seemed an
end of his difficulties. For half an hour they continued to talk over the
affair.
    »Well, it's a comical idea,« said Carter, as he took his leave, »but you
know your own business best.«
    When Amy returned, Reardon allowed her to put the child to bed before he
sought any conversation. She came at length and sat down in the study.
    »Mother advises us not to sell the furniture,« were her first words.
    »I'm glad of that, as I had quite made up my mind not to.«
    There was a change in his way of speaking which she at once noticed.
    »Have you thought of something?«
    »Yes. Carter has been here, and he happened to mention that they're opening
an out-patient department of the hospital, in the City Road. He'll want someone
to help him there. I asked for the post, and he promised it me.«
    The last words were hurried, though he had resolved to speak with
deliberation. No more feebleness; he had taken a decision, and would act upon it
as became a responsible man.
    »The post?« said Amy. »What post?«
    »
