"No," said Jack carelessly. "He knows how to take care of himself. He'll be better off here."
Julius listened to this conversation, thoughtfully watching the speaker as he spoke, and it helped him to a decision in a matter that had troubled him somewhat. He could not help seeing that Jack Morgan cared nothing for him, except so far as it suited his convenience to have his companionship. Looking back, he could not see that he owed him any gratitude. The balance of favors was on the other side. He had done more for Jack than Jack for him. He asked himself if he wanted to go with Jack Morgan on this journey, and he answered his own question in the negative. It was better that he should leave him now forever. With him he could only look forward to a future of shame and disgrace.
"What are you thinking about, boy?" asked Marlowe. "Do you want to go to California with Jack and me?"
"No," answered Julius.
"Why not?"
"I'd rather stay here," answered Julius shortly.
"When I was a lad I'd have liked to go off on a journey like that."
"I like stayin' here."
"He's used to the streets," said Jack. "He likes 'em. That's best, as he can't go."
"Can you take care of yourself?" asked Marlowe.