He sank back comfortably into his seat as though this statement settled satisfactorily most of the big affairs of the universe.
If what the boy said was true, Barnes was very glad for those back in the mellow brick house. It would simplify Aunt Philomela’s accounts and make John’s gray hairs less pathetic.
“You came East to place your stock on the market?” inquired Barnes with fresh suspicion.
“I’ve come back to make good,” answered Van Patten. “I’ve come back to pay some of my debts.”
“That ought to make you a welcome visitor.”
“I don’t know,” faltered Van Patten with what appeared to be more or less genuine emotion. “I can’t say that I’ve used my folks very well.”
“How long since you’ve been home?” asked Barnes.
“Not for years.”
“Years?”
“Dad and I had a bit of a scrap, and I cut.”