Horatio Alger

“ But the housekeeper, sharp-sighted as she ordinarily was, did not detect the secret motive of such attention she received from her nephew. She flattered herself that he really loved her, not suspecting that he was too selfish to love anybody but himself.
"Thomas," she said, with a sudden thought, "I may be able to help you to an increase of your income. Mr. Wharton needs somebody to read to him evenings. On my recommendation he might take you."
"Thank you, aunt, but I don't see it. I don't want to be worked to death." ”

“ I've laid up two thousand dollars; and what is that to provide for my old age? If the old man would die, and remember me handsomely in his will, it would be worth while; but this new favorite may stand in my way. If he does I'll be revenged on him as sure as my name is Ulrica Bradley."
Here the area bell rang, and in a moment one of the housemaids entered Mrs. Bradley's room.
"There's your nephew outside, ma'am, and wanting to see you."
"Tell him to come in," and the housekeeper's cold face became softer and pleasanter in aspect as a young man of twenty entered and greeted her carelessly. ”

“ Wharton?" said Jasper.
"He is very kind and generous. I am lucky to have so good a friend. There's only one thing that is likely to be disagreeable."
"What's that?"
"The housekeeper--her name is Mrs. Bradley-- for some reason or other she doesn't want me there."
"What makes you think so?"
"Her manner, and the way she speaks. She came in to read to Mr. Wharton last evening, and didn't seem to like it because I had been taken in her place."
"She is evidently jealous. You must take care not to offend her. She might endeavor to have you dismissed." ”