"Yes, sir. Mr. Gripp won't pay till she has made a full dozen."
"That seems inconsiderate."
"Oh, he's a mean fellow."
"I've a great mind to buy the debt of you."
"I wish you would, sir," said Dan, eagerly. "That would leave only sixty cents short, for I shall make ten cents more before twelve o'clock, it's likely."
"It is only half-past eleven. To put you quite at ease, I mean to lend you five dollars, and help you collect your mother's bill."
"You are very kind, sir," said Dan, surprised and grateful; "but I don't need so much."
"You may get short again when I am not here to assist you."
"Are you not afraid I shall never pay you, sir?"