Answer the question briefly:

Cade was nervous when he met Mr. Putnam. Why?

Cade had visited Mr. Putnam regarding a job appointment. He wished to be selected to teach Mr. Putnam’s son, Freddie, who was home-schooled. Since Mr. Cade did not have a really long stint in teaching in any of the multiple schools he had been in, it was obvious the parent would apprehend his teaching skills. This is why Mr. Cade had brought in letters of recommendation supporting his good qualities, and was nervous on meeting Mr. Putnam. He was scared and did not wish to be rejected for the job.