But Scott preferred to keep this to himself. He knew that if Loammi were told, he would have frequent occasion to borrow, and he felt that it would be prudent in him to lay by a portion of his earnings.
It will be remembered that his friend, Justin Wood, had bought for him an interest in the invention of Mr. Babcock, advancing the inventor a sum of money, which put him on his feet.
Scott had not forgotten this, but forbore to look up Mr. Babcock, not having quite so much confidence in his success as the inventor himself.
One evening, however, as he was preparing to go out to walk, he met Babcock coming upstairs.
"Good-evening, Mr. Babcock," he said; "I am glad to see you."
"You were going out?" asked the inventor.
"Only for a walk. I shall be better pleased to receive a visit from you."
"Then I will accept your invitation. I thought you would look me up."
"I was afraid I might interfere with you. I presume you are busy."
"Yes, very busy, I am glad to say. And how is your friend, Mr. Wood?"