At the supper table James noticed, to his secret disgust, that Herbert was treated with as much consideration as himself. Mr. and Mrs. Spencer appeared to consider them social equals, which made James very uncomfortable.
“You boys are about of an age, I suppose,” said Mr. Spencer.
“I really don't know,” said James, haughtily.
“You attend the same school?”
“Yes,” said James, “but I expect to go to some select academy very soon. At a public school you have to associate with all classes, you know.”
Mr. Spencer arched his brows, and steadily regarded the young aristocrat.
“I don't see any great distinction of classes in a country village,” said he, dryly. “Besides, we are living in a republic.”
“You wouldn't like to associate on equal terms with a day laborer,” said James, pertly.
“I am a laborer myself,” said the lawyer, smiling. “I wish I could say I were a day laborer exclusively, but sometimes I have to work into the night.”
“You are a professional man, and a gentleman,” said James. “You don't work with your hands.”