"Conrad is going home a short time on business," explained Mr. Drummond.
"When shall we see you back again, Walter?" asked Mrs. Drummond.
"That is uncertain," said Walter. "It depends upon my plans for the future."
"I have offered him increased pay," said Mr. Drummond, "if he will return to the store. I hope he may decide to do so. Our humble roof will ever be ready to shelter him."
Considering that Mr. Drummond had not lately made any such hospitable references to the humble roof, his wife looked somewhat puzzled.
Just at that moment Joshua, unconscious of the damaging discovery that had been made relative to himself, entered the room.
"Hallo! what's up?" he asked.
It was the first time his father had seen him since the discovery of his dishonesty, and his anger was kindled.
"You ought to be ashamed to show your face here, you young reprobate!" he exclaimed.