“I’m pretty sure that was bad news Tom got,” reflected Sam, when his chum had gone out. “And it must have been about money, for if it was a death, or anything like that, he’d have been willing enough to tell. I wish he would tell me. I’d lend him all he needs. But he’s too proud to ask, and I can’t offer, for that might hurt his feelings. Well, I’ll wait a bit and see what turns up.”
Matters were rapidly shaping themselves for the upturn, but neither Tom nor Sam knew this.
Our hero walked out to think alone for a time. He wondered if the plan his mother suggested were feasible. He resolved to find out, and began making some judicious inquiries.
The answers Tom received told him that it would be better not to ask for this money just at present for certain reasons that need not be detailed.
“One thing I am going to do though, is to tackle old Hawkesbury!” Tom decided. “It’s time I did, and I wish I had done so as soon as I came back with that copy of the trust deed. Doolittle must have written and told him what I said, and maybe the captain is wondering why I haven’t been to him before. Probably he’s all primed and ready for me, and will unlimber with all his guns, but I can’t help that. I’ve got to do something for my mother. I can’t have her suffer!”
Tom had a bitter feeling in his heart against the old army officer, but he endeavored to keep it down, and remain cool as he planned the interview.
He saw Captain Hawkesbury that afternoon, having received permission from his immediate superior to make the visit.
“Come in!” called the captain sharply as Tom knocked.
Tom entered, trying to calm the rapid beating of his heart. Buttoned under his closely-fitting coat was the rough draft of the trust deed. Tom expected to use it.
“Well, what do you want?” was the not very pleasant greeting of Captain Hawkesbury.