“I don’t believe you’ve got five dollars about you.”
Ben drew a five-dollar bill from his pocket. Mr. Winter looked at it longingly. The sight of money always made him feel covetous.
“You owe me as much as that for goin’ away suddenly, and leavin’ me in the lurch,” he said.
“Take it, then. You are welcome to it.”
With a look of satisfaction on his rugged face Jacob drew out an immense wallet and tucked the bill carefully away.
“You shall have your turn soon, mother,” said Ben, smiling.
“Have you been doin’ well, Ben?” asked Jacob, thawing a little.
“Pretty well, thank you. I can pay my way, Mr. Winter.”
“You’d better stay at home and pay board. I’ll take you for four dollars a week.”
“I will think it over, Mr. Winter, but I think business will keep me in New York. Who do you suppose came from New York on the boat with me, Mr. Winter?”