From that time Gordon and his wife lived with even stricter economy than before, in order to lay by a little money with which he could,—­at some future time, re-commence his own business, which was profitable.  There was still only a single shop in town, and that was the one owned by his old employer, who had, in fact, built himself up on his downfall, when he took to drinking and neglecting his business.  On less than a thousand dollars Gordon did not think of commencing business.  Less than that he knew would make the effort a doubtful one.  This amount he expected to save in about five years.

Two years of this time had elapsed, and Gordon had four hundred dollars invested and bearing interest.  He still held his situation at five hundred dollars per annum.  The only shop yet established in the town for doing the work for which he was qualified both as a journeyman and master workman, was that owned and still carried on by his old employer, who had made a good deal of money; but who had, of late, fallen into habits of dissipation and neglected his business.

One evening, while Gordon was reading at home in his comfortable little sitting-room, with his wife beside him engaged with her needle, and both feeling very contented, there was a rap at the door.  On opening it Gordon recognized Mr. Evenly, and politely invited him to come in.  After being seated, his old employer, who showed too plainly the debasing signs of frequent intoxication, said—­

“Gordon what are you doing now?”

The reformed man stated the nature of his occupation.

“What salary do you receive?” asked Evenly.

“Five hundred dollars a year.”

“Do you like your present employment?”

“Yes, very well.  It is lighter than my old business, and much cleaner.”

“Would you be willing to come to work for me again?” further inquired Evenly.

“I don’t know that I would.  My present situation is permanent, my employer a very pleasant man, and my work easy.”

“Three things that are very desirable, certainly.  But I’ll tell you what I want, and what I will give you.  Perhaps we can make a bargain.  There is no man in town who understands our business better than you do.  That I am free to admit.  Heretofore I have been my own manager; but I am satisfied that it will be for my interest to have a competent foreman in my establishment.  If I can find one to suit me I will give him liberal wages.  You will do exactly; and if you will take charge of my shop, I will make your wages fifteen dollars a week.  What do you say to that?”

“I rather think,” replied Gordon, “that I will accept your offer.  Five dollars a week advance in wages for a poor man is a consideration not lightly to be passed by.”

“It is not, certainly,” remarked Evenly.  “Then I may consider it settled that you will take charge of my shop.”

“Yes.  I believe I needn’t hesitate about the matter.”