"By no means," protested Mr. Durnford, "I am entirely at your service, my dear sir. But now," he added, after a pause, "I've been considering, and I think I can find you a secretary." "Ah! who is he, sir?" "It is she, not he." "But, sir!" "Yes, I know; but this is an exceptional young lady." "A _young_ lady?" "Yes, a capable, well-behaved, Christian young lady. I have known her for a good many years, and would recommend her to anybody. I know she is looking out for such a situation as this. She would serve you well--better than any young man, I know--and would be a most agreeable addition to your family circle. Besides, by engaging my friend, Miss Owen, you would be affording help in a case of real need and sterling merit. The girl has no parents, and has been brought up by some kind friends. But they are not rich, and she will have to make her own way. Now, look here; suppose the young lady were to run down and see you? She lives in Birmingham." "Do you really think it would be advisable?" "Indeed I do. She'll disarm Miss Horn at once. It'll be a case of love at first sight." "Well, sir, let it be as you say." "Then I may write to her without delay?" "If you please, sir." "Pray for me, Mr. Durnford," said "Cobbler" Horn, as he took his leave. "I will, my friend," was the hearty response. "It's not often," resumed "Cobbler" Horn, "that a Christian man is placed in circumstances of such difficulty as mine." The minister laughed heartily and long. "I really mean it, sir," persisted "Cobbler" Horn, with a deprecatory smile. "When I think of all that my having this money involves, I almost wish the Lord had been pleased to leave me in my contented poverty." "My dear friend," said the minister, "that will not do at all. Depend upon it, the joy of using your wealth for the Lord, and for His 'little ones,' will far more than make up for the vanished delights of your departed poverty." CHAPTER XV. "COBBLER" HORN ENGAGES A SECRETARY.