“Perhaps so, but consider my situation. I had no prospects and no money. I have none now, but somehow when a man has filled his stomach he feels less despondent.”
“I may be able to put something in your way. I came here a poor boy, but I am not poor now.”
“And I—would you be surprised to hear that I am the son of a rich man and the heir of a large estate?”
“Yes,” answered Grant, “I am surprised. You don’t look much like it. In that case I don’t understand why you should be in this condition.”
“I can explain easily. I have been a prodigal son. I have wasted money in folly and dissipation, and alienated my father’s affections.”
“Have you seen or heard from him lately?”
“No.”
“Then how do you know that he is estranged?”
“It can hardly be otherwise. He is an honorable man, and my conduct has shamed and humiliated him.”
“It is not too late to repent and turn over a new leaf.”