"I shall be glad to come, squire," said the blacksmith; "Gerald will come too."
"Who is this Mr. Nugent?" asked Mr. Crane, when they reached the street.
"He has lived in Portville for some years, but not much is known of him, except that he has the reputation of being very rich."
"Did your father know him?"
"As well as any one in the village. I think he consulted father about his affairs occasionally."
"Well, the old gentleman came near passing in his checks this afternoon. He don't look very rugged. How old is he?"
"Sixty or more, I should think."
"How does he pass his time?"
"He has a large library and is very fond of reading. He takes many magazines and papers."
"That's easier than bein' a blacksmith, Gerald."