sorted cargoes. The head of the
firm was James Hamilton, a man who stood deservedly high, not only in
the mercantile world, but as a citizen. He had served his native city
as an alderman, and had been offered the nomination for mayor by the
party to which he belonged, but had declined, on account of the
imperative claims of his private business.

Mr. Hamilton had long noticed, with a feeling of approval, Henry
Martin's faithful performance of duty. Though he had not promoted him
rapidly, he was observing him carefully, fully determined to serve him
in the future if he should deserve it. This Henry did not know. His
employer was not a man of many words, and he was not aware that he had
attracted his attention. Sometimes even he felt depressed by the
thought that he was getting on so slowly. But it did not so affect him
as to make him careless or neglectful of his duties. Even if he did
not obtain promotion, he meant to deserve it.

One morning, about this time, a clerk came to Henry, and said: "Mr.
Hamilton wishes to see you in his private office."

Henry was a little startled. The idea came to him that he might have
done something which had displeased his employer, and that he was to
be reprimanded, perhaps discharged. This would be so disastrous to him
that the thought of it made him turn pale. Still, think as he might,
he could not call to mind any error he had committed, and this
somewhat encouraged him.

He entered the office, saying, respectfully: "Did you wish to see me,
sir?"

"Yes," said the merchant, looking up from his writing; "sit down,
please."

It may be remarked that it was Mr. Hamilton's custom to be as polite
to his subordinates as to his social equals.

Henry sat down.

"How long have you been in my employ, Henry?" asked the merchant.

"I am now on my fourth year."

"How old are you?"

"Nearly sixteen, sir."

"You entered upon your business career very early."

"Yes, sir, earlier than I wished, but I was obliged to earn my living,
and had no choice."

"Have you parents living?"

"No, sir."

"Are you entirely dependent upon what I pay you for your support?"

"Yes, sir."

"I hope you don't get into debt?"

"No, sir; I have even saved a little money."

"Indeed!" said his employer, with interest. "What have you done with
it?"

"Deposited it in the Sixpenny Savings Bank."

"That is well. How much have you saved?"

"Thirty-five dollars. It isn't much, but it is a beginning."