"And won't you have to pay it back?" asked Abel.
"No; it's a free gift. It was a lucky day when I decided to come to Portville, even if my own sister did go back on me."
"It was out of my power to help you, Alonzo, but I am glad you have been so fortunate."
"How much did he give you?" asked Abel, turning to Gerald.
"He did not offer me anything. It was your uncle who saved his life."
"He might have given you a dollar or two," said Abel; but in his heart he was glad that Gerald was not remembered.
"I would not have accepted it."
"I would. I wouldn't be such an idiot as to refuse money when it was offered to me."
"You spoke the truth that time, Abel," said Alonzo, with a meaning smile. "I never knew you to refuse anything."
When it was half-past nine Mrs. Lane said: