Page:An Old English Home and Its Dependencies.djvu/251

Rh unable to carry on smoothly with the others. I have pensioned him, and now I want another, and that speedily. I have no under gardener fit to advance into his room."

"You want an elderly man, my lord?" "I want a good man, and an honest one, and one who understands the business. You know my gardens, hot-houses, and conservatories." "If he had only been a little older" began the nurseryman. "Oh, I am not particular as to age." "I was merely considering, my lord that man who has been round the gardens with you" "Would suit me exactly," interrupted Lord St. Ledger. "I took a fancy to him at once. He loves plants. He looks full of intelligence and honesty." "Honesty! Honest as the day. And as for intelligence, there is no lack of that. Experience may be wanting."

"I'll take him," said Lord St. Ledger. "I took stock of the fellow whilst he was going round with me."