His mother could aid him but little.

She had but one suggestion to make, and that was, that he should endeavor to get a situation in some store or counting-room.

This he attempted to do.
Following her direction, he called upon Mr.Easy, who promised to see about looking him up a situation.

It happened, the day after, that a neighbor spoke to him about a lad for his store--( Mr.Easy had already forgotten his promise)--Hiram was recommended, and the man called to see his mother.
"How much salary can you afford to give him ?" asked Mrs.Mayberry, after learning all about the situation, and feeling satisfied that her son should accept of it.
"Salary, ma'am ?" returned the storekeeper, in a tone of surprise.
"We never give a boy any salary for the first year.

The knowledge that is acquired of business is always considered a full compensation.