"Almost anybody would have been deceived under the circumstances," said Mr. Drummond, awkwardly.
"You did not give me an opportunity to defend myself, or rather you disbelieved all I said."
"Well, Conrad, I was mistaken. I shall be glad to have you come back to the store as before."
"Thank you, Mr. Drummond, but I have decided to go back to Willoughby for a short time. I want to consult Mr. Shaw about the future. It is time I formed some plans, as I shall probably have to earn my living."
"Don't you think you had better wait a few months?"
"No, sir, I think not."
"If you have made up your mind, all I have to say is that my humble dwelling will be ever open to receive you in the future. Perhaps, after a short visit at your old home, you may feel inclined to return to my employment. I will give you a dollar a week besides board."
Mr. Drummond looked as if he felt that this was a magnificent offer, for which Walter ought to feel grateful. But our hero knew very well that he could command better pay elsewhere, and was not particularly impressed. Still he wished to be polite.
"Thank you for your offer, Mr. Drummond," he said; "but I am not prepared to say, as yet, what I will do."
"I hope," said Mr. Drummond, rather embarrassed, "you won't speak of our little difference to your friends at Willoughby."