Fairfield, pompously.
"Then I suppose it will be of no use for me to call at your door," said
Frank, who, in place of being mortified, was amused by the agent's
arrogance.
"I should say not, unless your back is proof against a broomstick,"
answered Fairfield, coarsely. "I tell my servant to treat all who call
in that way."
"I won't put her to the trouble of using it," said Frank, disgusted at
the man's ill manners.
"That's where you are wise--yes, wise and prudent--young man."
"And now, Hamlin," said the agent, "I may as well come to business."
"To business!" repeated the farmer, rather surprised, for there was no
rent due for a month.
"Yes, to business," said Fairfield. "I came to give you notice that
after the next payment I shall feel obliged to raise your rent."
"Raise my rent!" exclaimed the farmer, in genuine dismay. "I am already
paying a considerably higher rent than I paid to your predecessor."
"Can't help it. Old Sampson was a slow-going old fogy. He didn't do his
duty by his employer. When I came in, I turned over a new leaf."
"I certainly got along better in his time."
"No doubt. He was a great deal too easy with you.
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