22 fred the Apprentice.

unable to work may have reason to complain,
but those who are well and strong ought to
labour willingly and easily.’

‘Have I not told you,’ replied Francis in a
cross tone of voice, ‘that I have been sent away
from the factory? Of what use, then, would it
be for me to like work, now that I have none
to do?’

‘There are other factories in Mulhausen be-
sides the one you were working in, and, if you
really wish it, you could find employment,

‘Yes; and go from door to door, I suppose,
asking whether they will give me work. A nice
sort of employment that!’

“You would find it more to your taste, per-
haps, to go begging about the streets: however,
as you object to ask for work, I will save you
the trouble. I will speak to Mr. Kartmann to-
morrow, and he may perhaps consent to take
you into his factory. Will this suit you?’

“I suppose that it mewst suit me.’

Fred did not wish to keep up any longer this
unpleasant conversation, besides which, Francis
seemed fatigued; so he asked him to go in-
doors.

Mrs, Ridler did not receive her vagabond