“I suppose I must have changed some,” said Gerald smiling.
“Yes; you have become a fine, manly boy. You don’t look like your father, but you remind me of your mother. My wife would like to see you. She always liked your mother. Can’t you come round and take supper with us,” and then he hesitated and looked embarrassed; “but I am afraid we can’t offer you much that is inviting,” he added.
“I will come with pleasure, Mr. Hastings,” said Gerald, “and as I am afraid you have been out of luck, will you allow me to lend you a small sum?”
Hastings took the ten dollars extended to him and his face brightened.
“Now I am not afraid to have you come,” he said. “My wife’s a good cook when she has the wherewithal. We’ve been reduced to short-commons lately.”
“Well,” said the clerk, as Gerald returned to the hotel, “did you call on Tom Hastings?”
“Yes; I found him at home. I am going there to supper to night.”
“You don’t say so!” ejaculated the clerk in astonishment. “Did Tom Hastings invite you?”