"
"I am quite ready to stay and serve you, sir," replied Skinner hastily
"and as for my angry words, think no more of them! It went to my heart to
be turned away at the very time you need me most."
("Hypocritical rogue!" thought Hardie.) "That is true, Skinner," said he;
"I do indeed need a faithful and sympathising servant, to advise,
support, and aid me. Ask yourself whether any man in England needs a
confidant more than I. It was bitter at first to be discovered even by
you: but now I am glad you know all; for I see I have undervalued your
ability as well as your zeal."
Thus Mr. Hardie bowed his pride to flatter Skinner, and soon saw by the
little fellow's heightened colour that this was the way to make him a
clerk of wax.
The banker and his clerk were reconciled. Then the latter was invited to
commit himself by carrying on the culinary process in his own hand. He
trembled a little, but complied, and so became an accomplice. On this his
master took him into his confidence, and told him everything it was
impossible to hide from him.
"And now, sir," said Skinner, "let me tell you what I did for you this
morning.
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