Looking for a Part-Time Job

  As a college student, I find that I am more and more in need of a computer. But I don’t have enough money to buy one.     Asking my parents for help is not a sensible solution, for it is already a heavy burden for them to pay my tuition and provide my living expenses in college. I must earn the money by myself.

One Saturday morning, I went out to look for a job. Having been refused many times, I at last wandered into a restaurant at 8:00 p.m. There were already four male candidates in the boss’s office. Obviously, the boss had difficulty in deciding whom he would employ because he said finally, “Well, I need to check your references before I can make a decision. I’ve got your telephone numbers and will call the boy I want.     But remember, whoever is going to be employed must be prepared to work here from 6:00 to 8:00 every evening. That’s all.”

 I was excited.     That was an ideal time slot for me though it would take away some of my free time. Besides, the restaurant wasn’t very far from my college. As I needed a job badly, I walked up to the boss when the other four left. Before I could open my mouth, he said “You’re too late” and turned away.

 “But sir, I will do my best. I’m from the countryside and I’m good at hard work. And I can work two days for free as a trial.”

At these words, the boss turned to me. “I want a boy who not only works hard but also has clean habits. Remember this is a restaurant. But look at your hands and clothes!”

 How right he was, for this occasion.     I should have kept myself clean.     But after a tiring day hunting for a job, I did look terrible. “Oh sir, I’ll keep myself clean and tidy.     I swear I will work very hard, sir, if only you could give me this chance.”

“All right, all right, I’ll give you a try.”

  My heart jumped like mad. I lowered my head and said thankfully, “Thank you, sir.” Then I thought to myself, “Thank goodness!”