After a short moment of thought, Jasper decided that he would not start a rift with Gale, whose stand was still uncertain. He would be slightly kind to the old man unless absolutely necessary.
“Old Master Hurlbutt, I’d like to ask for some time to think about this,” Jasper requested.
Gale gave a smile and replied, “Of course. I must ask that you do not take too long to think, but I shall await your reply.”
“Three days, then,” Jasper promised, “I’ll give you a clear response in three days.”
Gale nodded as if he was certain that Jasper would agree.
Now that they had finished negotiating, Jasper stood up. “I’ve bothered you for too long, Old Master Hurlbutt. I shall take my leave now.”
Gale reached out gently to gesture Jasper to stop and handed the ‘History of the North and South’ to him. “I am gifting this book to you.
“Do take a read should you find yourself some free time. The history of the north and south was an important time for our country. It would do you good to understand more.”
Jasper took over the priceless and long out of print ‘History of the North and South’ and replied, “Thank you for your gift, Old Master Hurlbutt. I’ll make sure to treasure it.”
Gale smiled and waved him off. “You are free to leave then. I will not hold you here anymore.”
Jasper bade Gale farewell and turned to leave.
Gale was calm as he watched Jasper’s figure vanish into the corridor. One could not tell if he was angry or happy.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Life at The Top