Bob. You don’t mean it! This will be news for Har—I mean my partner.
Dilly. Your partner? What is this to him?
Bob. Oh, nothing! only he is naturally interested in any thing that interests me; that’s all.
Mrs. L. Yes, Robert, your old master has seen sad times since you left. This house is mortgaged, and must now pass from him.
Bob. No! You don’t mean it?
Dilly. The interest is due to-morrow, and we’ve no money to pay it. Oh, if Harry were only here!
Bob. As he isn’t, let me be your banker. Here’s my wallet: it’s in the condition in which I was five years ago,—it’s overburdened, and wants tapping.
Dilly. No, no, Bob! You are very kind; but we have no claim upon you, and I could not think of taking your money.
Bob. Claim! confound it! Isn’t this the home of my old master? and do you suppose I am going to stand by and see it pass from his hands when I have plenty? No, Dilly. Harry and I were brothers here at school; and, when his father is in trouble, I’m bound to aid him for the good he has done me, lickings and all.