"Don't wish that, Scott, for without that Ezra would be poor indeed. It is all that he has to boast of."
"I am afraid it will be the same with Loammi."
"With this difference: Ezra, with all his faults, is enterprising and industrious, and I don't think his son will be either. In the race of life you may eclipse him, after all."
"It doesn't seem much like it now."
"No, but you are young yet, and time often works wonders."
"Won't it cost a good deal to set up Mrs. Mead in her new business?" asked Scott, thoughtfully.
"Not very much. She will enter into a house fully furnished and equipped, and with a sure and prompt income from a good set of lodgers."
"I hope she will succeed."
"I think she will. If Ezra would pay you wages, in place of giving you a home in his house, you might take a room there, too."
"I wish I could."