ng one. Dick saw employment before him, and a
life which he judged would suit him well. Then, too, longer residence
in the country would enable him to safeguard his interests on the coast,
and perhaps to sell or let the property which was all that he possessed.

"As to the pay," said Mr Pepson, "that will be liberal, far better,
indeed, than an official of your years obtains in these parts. We have
a valuable concession, and we can afford to pay the right man. Then,
too, there is a question of the store. You have one, we learn. We are
prepared to enter into an agreement to take a share of it from you, or
we will take all, paying for the house and the goodwill of the business.
In addition, since we shall want a residence, we are prepared to rent
or buy the residence in which your father lived."

Could he believe his ears? Could it be that he was listening to a
proposition which would relieve him of all his difficulties? Dick felt
stunned. The roar of the surf, which had troubled him ever since his
adventure, threatened to deafen him. He felt dizzy, and sat back in his
chair, grasping the arms for support. Meanwhile, Mr Pepson watched him
calmly, Meinheer Van Somering beaming upon him as though he alone were
the author of all these suggestions, and as if Dick were indebted to him
only.

"I can see a brave man wid half one eye," he gasped, as he fanned his
hot cheeks. "Meinheer is brave. He will fighd for us. He is ze man we
look for."

"Then I accept," exclaimed Dick, eagerly. "I feel that I am too young
for the task, or rather, that I should be at home in England. Out here
it is different. I can speak a little of the language, and, if it is
any advantage, I can shoot straight. I will go to this concession, and
will do my best in your interests. As to the property, your suggestions
take my breath away."

"While we are only too glad to have the opportunity of thus helping a
friend. Now, Mr Dick, we shall leave you. It is hot, and you are
tired. I will call to-morrow, and will then make a definite offer for
the business, or a share of it. Meanwhile I will send some one to you
who can give you independent advice as to its value. For business is
business, my lad, and it is necessary that your interests should be
protected. Now, Meinheer, we will go. It is downhill to the hotel, and
therefore easy walking."

He rose as Dick sprang to his feet, and shook our hero warmly by the
hand. Meinheer Va