"Did you learn much? Did you have good teachers?"
"Oh, I don't care much about studying. It's all very well for poor boys. But I sha'n't have to earn my living—mother'll take care of me."
Gerald winced. He understood very well that the money upon which Abel depended was, or should have been, his own.
"I suppose you had sports?"
"Yes; the boys played baseball and other things."
"Do you like baseball?"
"Not much. I wanted to be captain of the club, but the boys wouldn't let me."
"I hope you will like Portville. We have an academy here. Perhaps you will attend."
"Not just yet. I am tired of studying."
"Do you like boating?"