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"Sir?"

"It's your workin' paper You signed it, there's your X right there, ain't it? Answer me"

"I didn't sign that, Mr Teece" The boy trembled "Anyone can make an X"

"Listen to this, Silly Contract: 'I ork for Mr Sa to leave will give four weeks' notice and continue working until my position is filled' There" Teece slapped the paper, his eyes glittering "You cause trouble, we'll take it to court"

"I can't do that," wailed the boy, tears starting to roll down his face, "If I don't go today, I don't go"

"I know just how you feel, Silly; yes, sir, I syive you good food, boy Now you just get inside and start working and forget all about that nonsense, eh, Silly? Sure" Teece grinned and patted the boy's shoulder

The boy turned and looked at the oldon the porch He could hardly see now for his tears "Maybe--entlemen here" Thefirst at the boy and then at Teece

"You meanin' to say you think a white man should take your place, boy?" asked Teece coldly

Grandpa Quartermain took his red hands off his knees He looked out at the horizon thoughtfully and said, "Teece, what about me?"

"What?"

"I'll take Silly's job"

The porch was silent

Teece balanced hily

"Let the boy go I'll clean the brass"

"Would you, would you, really?" Silly ran over to Grandpa, laughing, tears on his cheeks, unbelieving