"Oh, dear, no! How could I think such a thing? But sometimes false charges are brought. If you had ever betrayed a trust, or kept money belonging to another, of course, it would hurt you."
"Certainly it would," said the philanthropist, his voice betraying some nervousness, "but I am glad to say that my conscience is clear on that point."
"By the way, Jack, let me send for a bottle of wine. We'll drink to the memory of old time."
"With all my heart, Tom. I see you're the right sort. When you are nominated for office I will work for you."
Browning smiled graciously on his visitor, and the interview closed pleasantly.
"He's afraid of me!" thought Jack, as he left the house.
CHAPTER XIX
A SENSATIONAL INCIDENT
When Luke brought home the dress pattern his mother was much pleased.