erything, and we've got to get rid of it, or we've got
to shut down till the home demand begins again. We've had two or three
such flurries before now, and they didn't amount to much. They say we
can't extend our commerce under the high tariff system we've got now,
because there ain't any sort of reciprocity on our side,--we want to
have the other fellows show all the reciprocity,--and the English have
got the advantage of us every time. I don't know whether it's so or
not; but I don't see why it should apply to my paint. Anyway, he wants
to try it, and I've about made up my mind to let him. Of course I
ain't going to let him take all the risk. I believe in the paint TOO,
and I shall pay his expenses anyway."

"So you want another partner after all?" Mrs. Lapham could not forbear
saying.

"Yes, if that's your idea of a partner. It isn't mine," returned her
husband dryly.

"Well, if you've made up your mind, Si, I suppose you're ready for
advice," said Mrs. Lapham.

The Colonel enjoyed this. "Yes, I am. What have you got to say
against it?"

"I don't know as I've got anything. I'm satisfied if you are."

"Well?"

"When is he going to start for South America?"

"I shall take him into the office a while. He'll get off some time in
the winter. But he's got to know the business first."

"Oh, indeed! Are you going to take him to board in the family?"

"What are you after, Persis?"

"Oh, nothing! I presume he will feel free to visit in the family, even
if he don't board with us."

"I presume he will."

"And if he don't use his privileges, do you think he'll be a fit person
to manage your paint in South America?"

The Colonel reddened consciously. "I'm not taking him on that basis."

"Oh yes, you are! You may pretend you ain't to yourself, but you
mustn't pretend so to me. Because I know you."

The Colonel laughed. "Pshaw!" he said.

Mrs. Lapham continued: "I don't see any harm in hoping that he'll take
a fancy to her. But if you really think it won't do to mix the two
things, I advise you not to take Mr. Corey into the business. It will
do all very well if he DOES take a fancy to her; but if he don't, you
know how you'll feel about it. And I know you well enough, Silas, to
know that you can't do him justice if that happens. And I don't think
it's right you should take this step unless you're pretty sure. I can
see that you've set your heart on this thing."

"I haven't set my heart on