"I came down to inquire his condition. I am his only relative, and though he is prejudiced against me, I can't help feeling anxious about his health. Can you tell me anything about him?"
"He has that boy, Mark Manning, about him all the time."
"What can be the boy's object in keeping company with a poor old man, who has no way of rewarding him?"
"I am not so sure about that," said James.
"About what?" asked Lyman, quickly.
"About his being poor."
"Have you any reason to think my uncle has money?" asked Lyman, eagerly, fixing a sharp glance of inquiry on the speaker.
James looked at Tom, as if to consult him about the propriety of telling what he knew.
"As I am his nephew and only relation, and—heir," continued Lyman, "you can freely tell me anything you have found out."
"Would you?" asked James, turning to his companion.