“Yes, sir,” came from both students.
“If you need more time—or any assistance—possibly I can arrange it,” went on Job Haskers, eagerly.
“Thank you, if you give me three weeks I am sure I can make up the lessons to your satisfaction, Mr. Haskers,” came from our hero.
“And so can I,” added the senator’s son. “Anyway, I’ll try my level best.”
“Very well, then, we will let it stand that way.” There was a pause and the instructor bit his lip several times. “By the way, I—er—understand that there is a very unpleasant rumor going around concerning me,” he proceeded. “It is all a mistake which I shall try to clear up without delay. I trust that you will not attempt to—er—to circulate that rumor any further.”
“Mr. Haskers, do you mean about that affair with Mrs. Breen?” demanded Dave, bluntly.
“Yes. I have already explained to Lawrence and Basswood that it is a mistake, and that the widow will be paid all that is due her. But if this should—er—be mentioned here––” The teacher stopped short and looked sharply at Dave and Roger.
“Mr. Haskers, let us understand each other,” answered Dave, quickly. “I have no desire whatever 77 to get you or anybody else into trouble. Nor do I want to ask you for any favors. I think we are justly entitled to more time in which to make up those lessons, and now that you have granted that time, I shall do my best to make good. As for that Mrs. Breen affair, I think that poor old lady ought to have her money. I understand some lawyer is going to try to collect it for her. Well, if you settle the matter I shall feel very glad; and you can rest assured that I will not say a word about the matter to anybody in this school, or anywhere else.”
“You—er—you give me your word on that, Porter?” demanded the instructor, eagerly.
“I do.”