“Say that I am not going back to New York—that I couldn't earn enough there to save anything.”
“I will do as you think best, Herbert; but I am afraid that my joy at the good news you have brought will betray me.”
“It will be attributed to your joy in having me back. We'll keep things secret for a day or two—that's all.”
After supper Herbert walked out. He was popular in the village, and received many cordial greetings. To the inevitable inquiries he replied as he had suggested to his mother.
Presently he met James Leech. He smiled to himself as he saw James advancing to meet him, but assumed a sober, downcast look.
“Hello, Carter! Have you got back?” said James.
“Yes.”
“Got tired of New York?”
“I should like New York well enough, if I could make enough money there.”
“Then you're not going back?” asked James, in a tone of satisfaction.