all have it," said the minister heartily. "There are scores of
young men--and young women too--who would jump at the chance of such a
post as that of your secretary would probably be."

"Thank you, sir; but you said young _women_?"

"Precisely. Young women often accept, and very efficiently fill, such
posts."

"Indeed? I don't know how my sister----"

"Of course not. But suppose we look for a moment at the other side of your
difficulty."

"Very well, sir; the other trouble is that I find it hard to decide
what answers to send to a good many of the letters. They are mostly
applications for money; and it's not easy to tell whether they are
genuine. Then there are a great many appeals on behalf of all sorts of
good objects. May I venture to hope, sir, that you will give me your
advice in these matters?"

"With pleasure!" replied Mr. Durnford, with sparkling eyes.

"Thank you, sir; thank you very much indeed," said "Cobbler" Horn, greatly
relieved. "And will it be too much if I ask you to advise me, in due
course, as to the best way of making this money of my uncle's do as much
good as possible, in a general way?"

"By no means," protested Mr. Durnford, "I am entirely at your service, my
dear sir. But now," he added, after a pause, "I've been considering, and I
think I can find you a secretary."

"Ah! who is he, sir?"

"It is she, not he."

"But, sir!"

"Yes, I know; but this is an exceptional young lady."

"A _young_ lady?"

"Yes, a capable, well-behaved, Christian young lady. I have known her for
a good many years, and would recommend her to anybody. I know she is
looking out for such a situation as this. She would serve you well--better
than any young man, I know--and would be a most agreeable addition to your
family circle. Besides, by engaging my friend, Miss Owen, you would be
affording help in a case of real need and sterling merit. The girl has no
parents, and has been brought up by some kind friends. But they are not
rich, and she will have to make her own way. Now, look here; suppose the
young lady were to run down and see you? She lives in Birmingham."

"Do you really think it would be advisable?"

"Indeed I do. She'll disarm Miss Horn at once. It'll be a case of love at
first sight."

"Well, sir, let it be as you say."

"Then I may write to her without delay?"

"If you please, sir."

"Pray for me, Mr. Durnford," said "Cobbler" Horn, as he took his leave.

"I will, my friend," was the