"Yes, sir. I suppose Gerald is goin' to attend to some business for you in New York?"
"Yes," replied the old gentleman, quietly.
"I thought perhaps there might be business enough for two persons. In that case I should be very glad to join him, and help."
"You are very considerate. Should that be the case I can send for you."
"Yes, sir," answered Abel, eagerly.
"I suppose your mother would not object to your undertaking it?"
"No, sir. I know New York better than Gerald. He has never been there more than two or three times."
"I will bear that in mind."
John Nugent resumed reading the morning paper, and Abel felt that he was dismissed. He rose, and, bidding Mr. Nugent good-by in an airy manner, left the house.
"That may lead to something," he said to himself, complacently. "The old man seemed rather struck by my appearance."