"That arrangement is not satisfactory, Mr. Brandon," said Grit firmly.
"Why isn't it?" demanded his stepfather, frowning.
"I use my money to support the family."
"Did I say anything against it? As the master of the house, the bills come to me to be paid, and therefore I require you to give me every night whatever you may have taken during the day."
"Do you intend to earn anything yourself?" asked Grit pointedly; "or do you expect to live on us?"
"Boy, you are impertinent," said Brandon, coloring.
"Don't provoke Mr. Brandon," said Grit's mother timidly.
"We may as well come to an understanding," said Grit boldly. "I am willing to do all I can for you, mother, but Mr. Brandon is able to take care of himself, and I cannot support him, too."
"Is this the way you talk to your father, you impertinent boy?" exclaimed Brandon wrathfully.