“It is for the young man to apologize, not you, Mr. Middleton,” said the lawyer severely.
“You are quite mistaken, sir,” said Tom; “it is for your son to apologize.”
“Young man, this assurance is most extraordinary,” gasped the lawyer, in amazement.
“If your son had behaved like a gentleman he would have had nothing to complain of,” said Tom. “He refused to play with me, and I playfully threw his ball into a corn-field. Then, as he rushed at me, I defended myself.”
“Mr. Middleton, do you sustain this boy in his extraordinary and defiant attitude?”
“There must have been a misunderstanding,” said Nathan eagerly. “I am anxious that Thomas should enjoy the privilege of associating with your son and nephew, and I hope when they come to know each other better they will become friends.”
“It is rather presumptuous for a charity boy to expect to associate with my family,” thought the lawyer; but he said: “If this young man will apologize for this outrage of yesterday and treat my son with proper respect, I may consent to his occasionally visiting him.”
“I am sure he will be willing,” said Mr. Middleton.
“Quite a mistake,” said Tom. “He owes me an apology for his boorish conduct. As to the ball—if it’s lost, I’ll pay for it.”
He drew out his pocket-book and displayed a roll of bills, considerably to the astonishment of the lawyer, who begun to think he had acted too hastily.