Portville contained about two thousand inhabitants. Of these the majority lived in the village, while perhaps two-fifths were scattered about within a radius of three miles. It was rather a flourishing place on the whole, and most of the houses were neat and comfortable. There were several shops or stores, of different kinds; for farmers came from ten miles around to trade in Portville.
“It seems like a pleasant village,” said Walter to his companion.
“Yes,” said the teacher, “the town is pleasant, and I have found most of the people pleasant also. I should be very well satisfied to remain if my health would allow.”
“Whose house is that?” asked Walter, pointing to a residence larger and more pretentious than he had yet seen.
“That is the nicest house in town, and it belongs to the man who is reputed to be the richest man in town.”
“General Wall?” said Walter, inquiringly.
“The same.”
“What sort of a man is he?”
“You have seen him, so that I need not describe his personal appearance. He is a popular man, and I think tries to make himself agreeable in order to gain influence.”
“You say he is rich?”