Phil would have been very much amazed if he had overheard this conversation.
CHAPTER IX.
THE OLD GENTLEMAN PROVES A FRIEND.
The old gentleman sat down in an arm-chair and waved his hand toward a small rocking-chair, in which Phil seated himself.
“I conclude that you had a good reason for leaving home, Philip,” said Mr. Carter, eying our hero with a keen, but friendly look.
“Yes, sir; since my father's death it has not been a home to me.”
“Is there a step-mother in the case?” asked the old gentleman shrewdly.
“Yes, sir.”
“Any one else?”