"No, I don't know as I ever did."
"Well, he can. Think of how many persons he keeps employed, and how he helps to give them a chance to earn their living."
"Well, Mortimer, you and I never will think alike on that subject. But will you do as I ask—not let Richard waste this money for a yacht?"
"I'm afraid I can't do as you ask, Ezra. I've promised Dick that he may have the boat, and I'm sure it will do him good."
"Humph!" exclaimed Uncle Ezra. Then his face took on a hard and determined look.
"Mortimer," he said finally, after a silence, "I don't like to interfere, but you must remember that Richard's mother was my only sister. I loved her, though I did not agree with some of her views. I'm fond of Richard, and I want to see him grow up a careful and saving man. But he never will as long as you allow him to go on in this fashion."
"I'm afraid it's too late to change our plan, Ezra."
"No, it's not too late! I'll take a hand in this myself. If you won't bring your son up in the right way, then I'll do it for you!"
The lean old man had arisen from his chair, and was excitedly pacing the room.
"Why, Ezra, what do you mean?" asked Mr. Hamilton, wondering what sudden emotion had possessed his brother-in-law.