"I apprehend Benjamin will have no voice in the matter," said Squire Davenport stiffly. "He is only a boy."
"He is my main support, and my main adviser," said Mrs. Barclay, with spirit, "and I shall not take any step which is disagreeable to him."
Mr. Kirk looked disappointed, but the squire gave him an assuring look, as the widow could see.
"Perhaps you may change your mind," said the squire significantly. "I am under the impression that I hold a mortgage on this property."
"Yes, sir," assented Mrs. Barclay apprehensively.
"For the sum of seven hundred dollars, if I am not mistaken."
"Yes, sir."
"I shall have need of this money for other purposes, and will trouble you to take it up."
"I was to have three months' notice," said the widow, with a troubled look.
"I will give you three months' notice to-night," said the squire.