Tom twisted his fingers, white at the gills, and mumbled his thanks vaguely.
"Jack," said Mr. George. "I know you're game. And you will look after Tom."
Dr. Rackett said he thought it a wise plan, and further, that if Mrs. Ellis would consent, he would like to bear the expenses of sending Lennie to school in England for the next three years.
Mrs. Ellis woke from her dream to say quickly:
"Although I thank you kindly, Dr. Rackett, I think you'll understand if I say No."
Her decision startled everybody.
"Prrh! Bah!" snorted Mr. George. "There's one thing. I doubt if we could make Lennie go. But, with your permission, Alice, well ask him. Jack, find Lennie for us."
"I'll not say a word," said Mrs. Ellis, nervously clutching the edge of the table. "I won't influence him. But if he goes it'll be the death of me. Poor old Lennie! Poor old Lennie!"
"Prrh! Bahl That's nonsense! Nonsense!" said Mr. George angrily. "Give the boy his chance, leave your fool emotions out, d'ye hear, Alice Ellis."
Mrs. Ellis sat like a martyr stubborn at the stake. Jack brought the mistrustful Len, who stood like a prisoner at the bar. Mr. George put the case as attractively as possible.