She had expected that it would be more difficult, that something cold and harsh would be said--she knew not what.

That she had not been put to shame and made to feel her unfortunate position, seemed remarkable.
Somewhat encouraged, she ventured into another large structure.

It was a clothing company, and more people were in evidence--well-dressed men of forty and more, surrounded by brass railings.
An office boy approached her.
"Who is it you wish to see ?" he asked.
"I want to see the manager," she said.

He ran away and spoke to one of a group of three men who were conferring together.

One of these came towards her.
"Well ?" he said coldly.