"Yes, many years ago; but I bought mining stocks, and after a while they went down to nothing, and——"
"Then you are a pauper!" said the squire, harshly.
"No. I have five hundred dollars, and I hope with that to get started, so as to earn an honest living."
Words cannot describe the scorn and disgust that appeared on the faces of Percy and his mother at the old man's confession of poverty.
"Albert," said the wife, "may I speak with you outside a moment?"
"Certainly, my dear."
"Get rid of the old man as soon as you can!" she said, imperiously. "He doesn't eat another meal in my house!"
"Be easy, my dear," said the squire. "I'll manage it."