“You suggested his being cared for by some relative.”
“It was a misapprehension, I assure you. I will gladly receive my poor friend’s son into my happy home circle. I will be his second father. I have no sons of my own. I will lavish upon him the tenderness of a parent.”
The visitor laughed shortly.
“I am afraid you have very little idea of what Tom Temple is.”
“He is the son of my early friend.”
“That may be, but that don’t make him a model, or a very desirable boarder.”
“Is he a bad boy?”
“He is known among us as ‘The Bully of the Village.’ He is fond of teasing and domineering over other boys, and is full of mischief. He is sure to give you trouble.”
“I’d rather he was a good boy,” thought Nathan, “but a thousand dollars will make up for a good deal of trouble.”
“Does my description frighten you?” said the visitor.