It was not possible, however, wholly to suppress the news of his departure. In due course, therefore, it came to the knowledge of Rupert Simpson, who undertook to learn more from Tom himself.
“Is it true that you are going to leave Wilton?” he asked.
“Yes,” answered Tom, briefly.
“I thought you’d have to. You couldn’t get work here.”
“I can do better elsewhere.”
“Where are you going?”
“To New York, first.”
“Oh, I see—you’ll set up as a bootblack,” sneered Rupert.
“If I did I would offer you a partnership.”
“Don’t be impudent,” said Rupert, reddening.