“That I should, sir,” said John, “but I would not stand in his light for the world.”

“How old are you, James?” said master.

“Nineteen next May, sir.”

“That’s young; what do you think, John?”

“Well, sir, it is young; but he is as steady as a man, and is strong, and well grown, and though he has not had much experience in driving, he has a light firm hand and a quick eye, and he is very careful, and I am quite sure no horse of his will be ruined for want of having his feet and shoes looked after.”

“Your word will go the furthest, John,” said the master, “for Sir Clifford adds in a postscript, ‘If I could find a man trained by your John I should like him better than any other,’ so, James, lad, think it over, talk to your mother at dinnertime, and then let me know what you wish.”