man in the district.
Studying geography and reading books of travel had, however, one effect
on his mind--they made him eager to see the places about which he had
read. When he spoke to his mother on the subject, she expressed a wish
for him to remain at home until a fitting opportunity came.

"Wait for Providence," she said; and in the meantime James waited.

CHAPTER IX.

FAITHFUL WORK.

A New Employment--At the Potash Works--Desire for a Seafaring Life--On
a Farm again.

One day Farmer Smith called at Mrs. Garfield's house, to ask James to
help him in weeding the peppermint, adding at the same time, that he
had engaged twenty boys for this especial purpose. Mrs. Garfield said
that her son was at that time very busy, and she thought that the
farmer would have enough boys without him.

The farmer replied that without James he should have altogether too
many. He had engaged them with the intention of getting James to lead
them, because of the wonderful influence he had over them. "James,"
said the farmer, "is a fast worker, and all the time he so interests
the boys with stories, anecdotes, and fun, that they do their best to
keep up with him. I am quite willing," he continued, "to pay James
something extra, and I shall then be the gainer by engaging him."

The farmer had employed James before at similar work, and therefore he
knew the value of such an active, cheerful servant. Once more he
agreed to take command of the weeders, and the work was again done to
the entire satisfaction of the shrewd farmer. The last job in which
James helped the carpenter was the building of a shed in connection
with a large potash factory. The owner of the works saw him, and
noticed how he gave his whole mind to the business in hand. As soon as
it was done, he was eager to employ the lad.

When James received an offer of nearly three pounds a month from the
manufacturer, he was filled with surprise. It was nearly ten shillings
more than was usually paid.

"I want just such a hand as you in my business," said the man; "and you
may come as soon as you like, and remain as long as you please."

"I must first consult my mother," said James, "and if she consents, I
will begin work on Monday."

Mrs. Garfield was filled with fear when she heard of Mr. Barton's
offer. She said that the rate of wages was high, but the workmen who
were engaged in the factory were rough and coarse in their speech and
manner of life. Ja