“I am glad to see you in such good spirits, Willis,” she said.
“If she only knew how I really felt,” thought her stepson. But it was for his interest to wear a mask.
“The fact is, mother,” he said, “I feel very cheerful. I've made a little turn in stocks, and realized three hundred dollars.”
“Have you, indeed, Willis? I congratulate you, my son. No doubt you will find the money useful.”
“No doubt of that. If I had the capital, I could make a good deal more.”
“But there would be the danger of losing,” suggested Mrs. Estabrook.
“That danger is very small, mother. I am in a situation to know all about the course of stocks. I wouldn't advise another to speculate, unless he has some friend in the Stock Exchange; but for me it is perfectly safe.”
“Pray be careful, Willis.”
“Oh, yes. I am sure to be. By the way, mother, haven't you got some money in government bonds?”
“A little,” answered Mrs. Estabrook, cautiously.