Ernie shrugged, trying to be compassionate. He knew he was luckier than some and usually tried his best not to shove it in people's faces. "Well, it's a start at least. You have to start somewhere, and it sounds like the only way to go is up. If you ever want to work somewhere else, there's always shops along Monument Alley who're looking for employees. Maybe you can look there? Would help buy some of those shoes you like."
Because Ernie naturally assumed the shoes were for Wayne, and he could empathize there - he did love a nice pair of leather shoes.