“Don’t do that,” said Morton nervously.
“Don’t do what,” asked Gates staring.
“I may be silly,” stammered Morton, “but I can’t bear to have any one touch my bed.”
Gates laughed.
“Why, man, you’re as nervous as a woman,” he said.
“I suppose I am,” said Morton, smiling in a forced manner
“Luckily for me I was born without nerves,” said Gates. “It’s a great blessing. Nothing disturbs me except—well, except the want of money.”
“It is uncomfortable,” said Morton.
“You are rich, though. You don’t understand what it is.”
“No, I am not, Gates. I’ve got a thousand dollars, and little else—except some stocks that are well-nigh worthless.”