Page:Christopher Morley--Where the blue begins.djvu/75

Rh there will be a general stepping-up among members of the firm, and that will be my chance. I wonder how much they pay a junior partner?

He almost uttered this question, as Mr. Beagle junior looked at him so inquiringly. But he caught himself in time.

“I beg your pardon for intruding,” said Gissing, “but I am the new floorwalker.”

“You are very kind,” said Mr. Beagle junior, “but we do not need a new floorwalker.”

“I beg your pardon again,” said Gissing, “but you are not au courant with the affairs of the store. One has just died, right by the silk-stocking counter. Very bad for business.”

At this moment the telephone rang, and Mr. Beagle seized it. He listened, sharply examining his caller meanwhile.

“You are right,” he said, as he put down the receiver. “Well, sir, have you had any experience?”

“Not exactly of that sort,” said Gissing; “but I think I understand the requirements. The tone of the store”

“I will ask you to be here at four-thirty this