The manner of Nicholas toward his uncle was far from agreeable. In fact, it was almost insolent. Dick retained his temper out of policy, but he said to himself:
"Some time or other, my fine nephew, I'll pay off old scores. See if I don't."
"Are you going to ride this morning?" he asked the next day.
"I may," answered Nicholas.
"I should like to ride with you."
"I prefer riding by myself."
"Oh, come, nephew. I shan't stay here long. Don't refuse such a small favor."
In consequence probably of the first part of this answer, Mrs. Kent said:
"Nicholas, you'd better take your uncle out this morning and show him a little of the village."
Nicholas grumblingly assented.