The old lady smiled sadly.
“No, no, Paul. I can't consent to become a burden upon your generosity. You can't afford it, and it will not be right.”
“O,” said Paul, smiling, “you give me credit for too much. I mean that you shall pay your board.”
“But you know I have no money.”
“No, I don't. I don't consider that a lady is penniless, who has an income of three hundred dollars a year.”
“I don't understand you, Paul.”
“Then, perhaps you will understand this,” said our hero, enjoying the old lady's astonishment.
He drew from his pocket a roll of bills, and passed them to Aunt Lucy.
The old lady looked so bewildered, that he lost no time in explaining the matter to her. Then, indeed, Aunt Lucy was happy; not only because she had become suddenly independent, but, because after years of coldness and estrangement, her brother had at last become reconciled to her.
“Now, Aunt Lucy,” resumed Paul, “I'll tell you what my plans are. You shall get into the chaise with me, and go at once to New York. I think Aunt Hester will be willing to receive you as a boarder; if not, I will find you a pleasant place near by. Will that suit you?”