"It seems to me," he said, "it would be better to give me the money at once."
"I don't think so."
"I hope you have no suspicions of my good faith."
"I won't express my opinion on that subject. I will only say that the arrangement I have suggested suits me best."
"Well," said Lyman, slowly, "I will try to win your good opinion. I am afraid I have not money enough to get back to the city."
He had over ten dollars in his pocket at that moment, but it struck him that he had a good excuse for securing a little more.
The hermit smiled contemptuously.
"Then suppose I had had no money to give you—how would you have got back to the city? Perhaps you meant to stay with me?"
"I will, Uncle Anthony, if you desire it."
"Thank you. I won't trouble you."