"It may be so, but I think it very unwise to send off a boy by himself. What judgment has he, or what can he do?"
"I don't very well know. He seems to enjoy the trip."
"Of course; but it will spoil him for solid work. He had better have stayed at home."
"What encouragement was there for him to stay in Lakeville? If you had not discharged him, he would be here now. If you will take him back into the factory, I will write him to that effect, and perhaps it will induce him to return."
"Ahem! I will think of it. Does he send you any money?"
"Not yet."
"Then how do you live?"
"Without calling upon you, Albert," said Mrs. Barton, with a little tinge of bitterness. "I hardly think you feel enough interest in me to care how I live."
Albert Marlowe was somewhat embarrassed, and regretted that he had asked the question. Mrs. Barton might take it into her head that he was willing to contribute to her support, and this was far from being the case.
"Women look at things from a peculiar point of view," he said. "Of course I wish you well, and for that reason regret that you are so injudicious in your management of Bert."