“No, Mother. Our income is the same that it has been for years.”
“Then it was not because of me; because you felt that I should have those 'luxuries' you talk about so often? Oh, I don't need them, Roscoe I really don't. I am—I scarcely dare say it for fear it may not be true—but I THINK I am better than I have been. I feel stronger.”
“I know you are better, Mother. Doctor Quimby is very much encouraged.”
“Is he? I am so glad! For your sake, Boy. Perhaps the time will come when I may not be your Old Man Of the Sea as I am now. But you did not sell the land because of me?”
“No.”
“You did not sell it for yourself, that I know. I wonder . . . But, there! I mustn't wonder, and I won't. Captain Dean was very angry and unreasonable, Dorinda says. I suppose his pride is hurt. I'm afraid he will make it unpleasant for you in the village.”
“He will do his best, I'm sure of that.”
“You poor boy! As if you did not have enough to bear without that! He has asked you to resign from the bank?”
I smiled. “He has pitched me out, neck and crop,” I answered. “I expected that, of course.”
“But what will you do? Can't Mr. Taylor help you? Perhaps he will use his influence with the captain.”