"Do you wish me to go out, mother?" asked Mark.
"No. Whatever affects you affects me. Besides, I may want your advice."
"I don't ask Edgar for advice," returned Solon Talbot dryly.
"I suppose not. You are a business man, and can judge better than he. I am not a business man."
"You are older than Mark."
"I have always found Mark a safe and good adviser."
"You will spoil him by such flattery."
"I am not afraid of it."
"Very well. I will humor your prejudices. Mark may have more judgment than I give him credit for."
This he said because he saw that it was necessary under the circumstances to propitiate Mark. The telegraph boy understood his uncle's object very well and was amused, but remained outwardly grave.