"No, the shop is shut down for a fortnight," said John, soberly. "It is likely to be a bad job for us."
"How is that?"
"Our rent was due yesterday, and we can't pay it."
"But this is one of father's houses."
"Yes; if your father was alive there would be no trouble."
"Have you had any notice to pay?" asked Gerald, quickly.
"Your stepmother says that if the rent is not paid on Monday we must turn out."
"Surely she would not be so inhuman."
"That is exactly what she said when mother went to the house yesterday afternoon. My being out of work made no difference to her. I wish the house was yours, Gerald."
"Nothing seems to be mine, John," said Gerald, gravely. "Mrs. Lane told me this morning that I must leave school and go to work."