"It is nearly six, Larry," reminded the latter, breaking the silence.
"Yes, sir. I will go right along."
He flung on his cap and buttoned up his coat, lingering at the door for
a parting word from his father. But none came.
"What shall I say to Mr. Gardner?" Larry asked, unable to go without
breaking the silence.
"You needn't say anything."
"But he may ask why you didn't come. He always does, unless you give
notice the night before."
"Your mother told you I was going away, and that is enough for you to
tell him. You needn't let it trouble you, anyway; just attend to your
duties and say nothing to anybody. Remember that it is a responsible
business to have full charge of a thousand-hose-power engine and nine
boilers, and something that not many boys of seventeen are trusted to
run even for a day or two at a time."
"I know that, father, and that is why I wanted to know what to say to
the superintendent."
"I have told you all you need to say, and more, unless you are asked."
"All right, sir. I--I hope you will have good luck, father,
and--good-by.
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