Nathan received the money with mingled joy and regret, the latter feeling being roused by the thought that it was the last money he would receive on Tom’s account.
“And he’s a beggar after all,” said Nathan to himself as he rode homeward. “Who would have thought it? It’ll take down a little of his independence, I reckon. I ain’t sorry as far as he’s concerned. His pride deserves to have a fall. But it’ll be a terrible loss to me.”
CHAPTER XIII
NEWS AFFECTS TOM’S FRIENDS.
WHEN Nathan Middleton reached home at three o’clock in the afternoon, his face wore the look of mysterious importance that indicated the possession of a secret. His wife understood this at once, and asked immediately:
“What’s happened, Nathan?”
“What’s happened? Who said anything had happened?”
“Your looks said so.”
“Perhaps my looks will tell you what it is.”