“Do you know, Grant, that I, as your step-father, and natural guardian, have a right to make you tell?”
“No, I don’t. At any rate, I shan’t tell.”
“You’re getting dreadful contrary lately, Grant. Mrs. T., I think we are going to have trouble with that boy. Of course Mr. Shick won’t be paid, and he’ll send in his bill to you or me likely. He can’t make us pay, for he has trusted a minor without consultin’ his parents or guardians. I wash my hands of the matter.”
So saying, Mr. Tarbox left the room.
“Grant,” said his mother, “I can’t help feeling anxious. It does seem a crazy idea for you to order a twenty-dollar suit.”
“Why should it, mother?”
“When you have no money to pay for it.”
“Mother, did you ever know me to tell a lie?”
“No, Grant.”
“Then, when I tell you that I’ve got money enough to pay for this suit, and more, too, you can believe me.”