Joshua yielded to his friend’s superior knowledge of what was necessary in the city, and tried on several pairs, till at last one was found which Sam declared to be just right for him.
“How much will they be?” asked Joshua.
“Two dollars.”
“Ain’t that rather high?” asked Joshua, who privately doubted whether it would not be better to keep his money.
“Not at all. We should charge two dollars and a half to anybody else. As you’re a friend, I make allowances. You’ll want some new boots soon. Those you have on are countrified.”
“I guess they’ll last me a little longer,” said Joshua, hurriedly; for, though the money was dishonestly acquired, he was inclined to be frugal.
“Well, you needn’t buy to-day. Next week will answer.”
Sam’s object in urging Joshua to purchase was to reconcile his employer to his presence in the store, for he foresaw that his visitor would be likely to spend considerable time there. He wished, besides, to obtain an extra evening off duty, meaning to accompany Joshua to the theatre at the latter’s expense. He did not expect that Joshua, who inherited, as he knew, a mean disposition from his father, would voluntarily pay for the tickets; but there is such a thing as borrowing without the intention of repaying the money, and this Sam meant to do.
In pursuance of this plan, he soon after went up to the desk behind which Mr. Craven was standing.
“Mr. Craven,” said he, “can you spare me this evening?”