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Thayer, William M. (William Makepeace), 1820-1898

"From Boyhood to Manhood Life of Benjamin Franklin"

"
"Lor', me!" exclaimed the kind-hearted woman; "if that ain't too bad!
What kin ye du?"
"That is what I want to ask you. Is there any other conveyance to
Philadelphia?"
"Lor', no; and all ye has to du is to make the best on 't."
"And what is that? That is just what I want to know. How can I make
the best on 't?"
"What ye goin' to Philadelphy for?" she replied, instead of answering
his question.
"I am going after work. I am a printer, and want to find work in a
printing office."
"A printer, lor'! Dear me, yer fortin is made to set up business in
this 'ere town. There's nothin' of the like here."
"I have nothing to set up the business with," said Benjamin. "I would
as lief work here as in Philadelphia, if the way was open."
The woman did not know what was necessary in establishing a printing
house. That types and a press were indispensable articles in such
business she did not dream. She thought, doubtless, that he carried
all necessary fixtures with him in his pockets.
"Lor', then, I'll lodge ye till Tuesday for ----," naming the sum.
"I will stay with you, then, and make the best of it," he replied.
He found himself in very good quarters, and his hostess proved herself
to be very kind and hospitable. He took dinner with her, and remained
about the shop until towards night, when he walked forth to view the
place.


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