He had too much tact to refuse the money, but quietly put it into his pocket.
"Helen," said Mr. Percival, "I would like a word with you. We will leave our young friend here alone for five minutes."
"Certainly, father."
The two went into an adjoining room, and Mr. Percival commenced by asking:
"How do you like this boy, Helen?"
"Very much. He seems to have been brought up as a gentleman."
"He has. Till a short time since he supposed himself the heir to a fortune."
"Indeed!" said Mrs. Gordon, with curiosity.
Briefly, Mr. Percival rehearsed the story which Frank had told him.
"What a shame!" exclaimed Mrs. Gordon, indignantly. "His stepfather ought to be punished:"