It's too provoking; I really think, Ess, that the majority of white folks
imagine that we are only fit for servants, and incapable of being rendered
useful in any other capacity. If that terrible misfortune had not befallen
father, I should have learned his trade."
"Ah!" sighed Esther, "but for that we should all have been happier. But,
Charlie," she added, "how do you know that you cannot obtain any other
employment than that of a servant? Have you ever applied personally to any
one?"
"No, Esther, I haven't; but you know as well as I that white masters won't
receive coloured apprentices."
"I think a great deal of that is taken for granted," rejoined Esther, "try
some one yourself."
"I only wish I knew of any one to try," responded Charlie, "I'd hazard the
experiment at any rate."
"Look over the newspaper in the morning," advised Esther; "there are always
a great many wants advertised--amongst them you may perhaps find something
suitable."
"Well, I will Ess--now then we won't talk about that any more--pray tell
me, if I'm not too inquisitive, what do you purpose buying with your
money--a wedding-dress, eh?" he asked, with a merry twinkle in his eye.
Esther blushed and sighed, as she answered: "No, Charlie, that is all over
for the present.
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