Jarius. (Snatching jug from him.) Here is the proof. O, Will, young feller, has it come to this?
Will. What right have you meddling here? This is my father’s house. Haven’t I a right to pass in and out of it when I please?
Jarius. Jes’ so; but not to rob the old man. What right have I to meddle? The right which every honest man should be proud to exercise—the right to battle wrong wherever found. Young feller, you’ve made my heart ache to-night. To see the boy we were all so proud of sneaking out of his father’s house a thief! It’s too bad!
Will. Jarius Jordan, once more I tell you I’m no thief.
Jarius. Will you tell your father so, when I arouse him, as I mean to?
Will. No, no, Jarius; don’t do that. Let me go as I came. Keep the jug, if you please; only let me go.
Jarius. Will Nutter, young feller, you’re going to destruction as fast as your legs can carry you. Where’s your pride? Where’s your grand expectations, that you raved so about, a year ago? Why, you’re the meanest of all critters—a thief.
Will. That name again?
Jarius. Yes; again and again. I ain’t agoin’ to be mealy-mouthed on this subject, anyhow. You see what yer fine friend has brought ye to; for it’s all his work. I’ve watched ye in the city all through yer year of service with him. I’ve seen the temptations spread by him like a spider, and you, poor little fly, walk into them. It all came of his trickery. And now here you are, crawling into the room where your poor mother is sleeping—
Will. O, don’t, Jarius; don’t speak of my mother! What would she say to know that her poor boy was a—a—