"The estate is not yet settled, and even if it were I should not feel at liberty to take Mr. Lane's money for such a purpose."
"I reckon you'll spend it on yourself and Abel, Melindy."
"My husband left a son."
"I know that, and he's a gentleman, too," said Mr. Crane, with a kindly glance at Gerald. "If he had money I am sure he would help me."
"Yes, Mr. Crane; I would," said Gerald.
"We won't discuss that matter now, Alonzo. As you are here, you can stay for the balance of the day."
"I shall have to stay till to-morrow, as there is no train from Portville till then. I hope you won't forget the help I gave you and Abel when you were first left a widder."
"It isn't very becoming to twit me with any little favors I may have accepted from you in the past," said Mrs. Lane. "If you want me to receive you in a friendly way, you must behave and talk differently."
As Mr. Crane went into the house, following his not over-cordial relative, Gerald walked away. He felt that he had no place in the family conclave, and was only sorry that it was not likely to prove very satisfactory to his new acquaintance.
He walked away, and, having nothing else to occupy his time, went to the lake and got into his rowboat. He rowed about lazily for half an hour when he heard a voice from the bank.