"That matter is not settled yet. I am not quite sure whether your father would like me to tell."
Gilbert said this, understanding the embarrassment of intimating to a son that his father had defrauded him of the property that was rightfully his. He thought it best to let his uncle reveal the secret himself.
They drove ten miles, reaching a considerable town, boasting a large hotel.
"Let us go in and have a game of billiards," suggested Jasper.
"Very well, but you won't find me much of a player."
"I must get father to put a billiard table in the house. I like the game, but I get no chance to practice."
They adjourned to the bar-room, in which there was a solitary table. This happened to be unoccupied, and they accordingly played two games, which lasted about an hour and a half. The reader will judge that neither was very expert in the game.
"Now," said Jasper, who paid for both games, despite Gilbert's remonstrances, "we will order a little lunch, and then start for home."
"I don't feel hungry."
"Nonsense! one can always eat. Besides, I want to patronize the hotel."