“I think he will go away to-morrow.”
“What is his object in coming here?”
“I sent for him. I wished to see if he would act a friendly part toward you when I am gone.”
“Do you think he will?” asked Gerald, dubiously.
“He wants to buy the papers which I gave into your keeping for a thousand dollars.”
“So you told me.”
“Shall I make the bargain, Gerald?” asked his father, earnestly. “Remember, I leave you nothing except this poor cabin and its contents, and eighty acres of land which I pre-empted from the government. By the way, I must give you the paper attesting my ownership.”
“Don’t trouble yourself about me, father. I am young and strong,” and Gerald straightened up, and extended his muscular arm. “I ought to be able to fight my way.”
“I hope you can, Gerald. As you say, you are young and strong, and here in this Western country a boy has a better chance than in the East. Still, I should like to feel that you had some money to start with. Now, a thousand dollars would be a large sum to one in your position.”