"Nearly all of this sum will be swallowed up by small debts due in Port Jervis. You will understand now why I have come to lay our case before Mr. Ferguson, and see if he cannot give us more, or at any rate find me employment, for on me now rests the duty of providing for my poor mother."
"I wish I could encourage you, Miss Patton——"
"Don't call me Miss Patton. I look upon yon as a kind friend, and hope you will call me Ruth."
"So indeed I will, for I feel a strong interest in you, Ruth."
"And I will look to you for advice."
"Then I advise you to call this evening on Mr. Ferguson, and find out the worst."
"Meanwhile perhaps you can direct me to a cheap boarding-house."
"You will stay here till you have had time to form your plans."
"I will gladly do so if you will let me pay you."
"All in good time, Ruth. To-day you can help me if you will, and it will be time to pay board when you are earning something."