"Let them talk! It is none of their business. That reminds me, ma. Can't you let me have five dollars?"
"I let you have some money three days ago," said Mrs. Lane, frowning. "What did you do with it?"
"It was only three dollars."
"That is a good deal of money for a boy of your age. You seem to think I am made of money."
"You mustn't get mean, ma. Why, Mr. Lane left you as much as fifty thousand dollars. I have heard you say so."
"I will give you two dollars, and not a cent more. Don't ask me for any more for a week."
Abel did not commit himself, but taking the money, went down the street, where he soon spent part of it playing pool with a young man of not the best reputation.
Mrs. Lane sat down at her desk, and began to examine her accounts.
"Fifty thousand dollars!" she mused. "Yes, it is a goodly sum, and will maintain Abel and myself in comfort all our lives. I am sorry he is growing so extravagant. I shall have to check him. In one month I shall hand in my final accounts, and shall come into undisputed possession of my money. Then I shall be able to carry out the plan I have had in view so long, and will make a tour of Europe with Abel. I am told that it does not cost as much to travel in Europe as in this country. There, free from all money cares, I can enjoy myself. I can hardly wait for the time to come."
She closed her book and leaned back in her chair, in complacent thought.