Sebastian broke out into exclamations at the words ‘if I can,’ as if he thought everything in the power of the heir of Redclyffe.
‘Have I not told you,’ said Guy, ‘that for the present I have very little command of money? Hush! no more of that,’ he added, sternly, cutting off an imprecation which his uncle was commencing on those who kept him so short.
‘And you are content to bear it? Did you never hear of ways and means? If you were to say but one word of borrowing, they would go down on their knees to you, and offer you every farthing you have to keep you in their own hands.’
‘I am quite satisfied,’ said Guy, coldly.
‘The greater fool are you!’ was on Dixon’s lips, but he did not utter it, because he wanted to propitiate him; and after some more circumlocution, Guy succeeded in discovering that he had been gambling, and had lost an amount which, unless he could obtain immediate assistance, would become known, and lead to the loss of his character and situation. Guy stood and considered. He had an impulse, but he did not think it a safe one, and resolved to give himself time.
‘I do not say that I cannot help you,’ he answered, ‘but I must have time to consider.’
‘Time! would you see me ruined while you are considering?’
‘I suppose this must be paid immediately. Where do you lodge?’
Mr. Dixon told him the street and number.
‘You shall hear from me to-morrow morning. I cannot trust my present thoughts. Good night!’