Jack Carter had in his hand a bottle and a tin mug.
"Strangers," said he, "Jack Carter's a poor man, but he's not so poor that he can't offer a glass of wine to a friend."
As he spoke, he poured out a liberal mug of wine and offered it to Bradley.
Our friend Bradley was not a member of a temperance society, and he could not resist the temptation. His conscience smote him when he thought of the suspicions he had cherished, and there was a sudden revulsion.
"After all," thought he, "Jack Carter is a good fellow. He don't look it, to be sure, but a man can't help his looks What is it the poet says, 'A man may smile and be a villain still.' Jack's a rough customer, but he's treatin' Ben and me tiptop."
"I drink your health, Jack," he said cordially. "You've treated Ben and me like gentlemen, and we're glad to know you. You're the right sort."
And he drained the mug.
Jack Carter filled it again, and passed it to Ben.
"Take a drink, boy," he said. "It will make you feel good."
"No, thank you," said Ben politely.