“He does not care to see me. Shall I tell you what sort of a letter he wrote to Dr. Kent about me?”
“Yes, tell me.”
Herbert, in indignant language, which correctly represented his feelings, gave the substance of the letter, which is already known to us.
“I shall not feel easy,” he said, “until I am able to return the ten dollars which my uncle sent me. I am not willing to remain under obligations to one who cares so little for me.”
“I think you are proud,” said Ralph, bending his eyes upon the lad's glowing countenance.
“Perhaps I am,” said Herbert; “but is it not a proper pride?”
“I cannot say no,” answered Ralph; “but would you feel the same about incurring obligations to a friend?”
“No,” said Herbert; “that would be different.”
“I am glad to hear you say so, for I am going to ask you to accept help from me.”
To Herbert's surprise, Ralph drew out a small bag, originally intended for shot, and drew therefrom five golden coins, of five dollars each.