Mr. Ingalls shook his head.
“It would never do,” he said. “It would not suit a boy brought up as you have been.”
“I don’t suppose it would; but I don’t expect to suit myself. That is not the question with me. I must do as I can.”
“Then stay here. If you can’t pay your whole board at the week’s end I will make up the balance. I should have to pay more, at any rate, if I occupied the room alone.”
Gilbert reflected a moment.
“You are very kind, Mr. Ingalls,” he said, “and I will accept your offer, on one condition.”
“What is that?”
“That you lend me the money, and I will repay it as soon as I am able.”
“I agree to that.”
“Then I will stay, for a week or two at least. Now I want to ask your advice. I must find something to do at once.”