The Argosy — page 109: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

an ® A Secret of the Sea... 97 was in want of an ananuensis and secretary. It seems to me that Mr. Pomeroy would be just the man for such a position.” “Qh, he’s got ability enough for such a berth, I daresay. But, in the first place, I believe the fellow is too much of a Bohemian ever to settle down steadily to anything; and, in the second place, I know nothing about either himself or his antecedents. How would it be possible for me to recommend a man to Sir Thomas respecting whom I know nothing ?” ‘“‘ However much of a Bohemian, as you call it, Mr. Pomeroy may have been, he has both the manners and education of a gentleman ; and I daresay that he would be able to satisfy you as to his respectability. Aunt was quite taken with him last evening, and when I went into her room this morning she desired me to tell you that she would take it as a kindness to herself if you would interest yourself for Mr. Pomeroy in whatever way you might think would benefit him most.” ‘“‘ Of course, if I thought it would please my mother, I might stretch a point in his favour, though really " ‘It would please my aunt greatly if you would do so. It struck me that this situation at Sir Thomas Dudgeon’s would be just the thing for Mr. Pomeroy.” “ But, really, I don’t at all see how I can recommend a man about whom I know nothing.” “ You are going away; Mr. Pomeroy is to call here at eleven ; let me see him in your place, and if he can satisfy me as to the respect- ability of himself and his connections, may I promise him the situation in your name?” ‘Really, Olive, you seem very much interested in this man.” ‘‘ T am interested in him, Matthew.” ‘Take care that your interest in him does not deepen into some-. thing far more dangerous ; take care that you don’t lose your heart to him.” Olive’s colourless cheek flushed for a moment, but she answered quite calmly: “ Your warning on that point is quite unnecessary,. Matthew. But you have not answered my question.” Kelvin looked at his watch and then rose hurriedly. It was later than he had thought. He had barely time to catch his train. “Do as you like about it,” he said, not without a touch of irritation in his voice. ‘When my mother and you lay your heads together and conspire against me, I know that I may as well give in at once. Mind you, I don’t think this fellow 1s worth half the trouble that you two women are taking about him.” ‘‘ Blind—blind as ever!” muttered Olive to herself as she stood at the window and watched Kelvin hurrying down the street in the direction of the station. ‘A woman of my own age and any brains at all would detect my motive at once, but a man can rarely see beyond his nose.” VOL. XIX. eonniebooks (GO)