"Of course no one will believe it that knows me," returned Gerald, contemptuously.
"I'm not so sure of that."
"If your mother were not here I would give you a thrashing!" said Gerald, hotly.
"Ma wouldn't let you."
"All this is very discreditable, Gerald," said his stepmother. "I certainly did not think that you would descend to theft. Mr. Tubbs might have had you arrested."
"I found a friend to speak up for me—Mr. Barton."
"Has Mr. Tubbs discharged you, or is he willing to keep you?"
"I presume he is."
"Then you will go back," said Mrs. Lane, decisively.
"I shall remain till the end of the week to oblige Mr. Tubbs, but I will stay no longer."