"For my part, I prefer the
English social system, where the gentry are treated with proper
deference."
"Well, father, may I engage Ben as my servant?"
"I am afraid you would not find him properly subordinate."
"Just leave that to me," said Sam confidently. "If I can't teach him
his place, then nobody can. I should enjoy having him to order
about."
Sam generally carried his point with his father, and the present
instance was no exception.
"I don't know that I have any particular objection," said the major.
"How much wages may I offer, father?"
"The same that your Cousin Henry's servant gets."
"All right, sir," said Sam, with satisfaction. "I guess I'll go
round, and see him about it this afternoon. I suppose he can come
any time?"
"Yes, my son."
As Sam went out of the room his father thought, complacently:
"My son has all the pride and instincts of a gentleman. He will do
credit to the family."
Few persons in the village would have agreed with the major. Sam
Sturgis was decidedly unpopular. No boy who puts on airs is likely
to be a favorite with any class of persons, and Sam put on rather
more than he was entitled to. From time to time he received a
rebuff, but still money will tell.
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