“Take them,” he said, simply.
Herbert hesitated, while his face indicated extreme surprise.
“I thought—” he commenced, and then paused.
“You thought me poor,” said Ralph, finishing the sentence for him. “Is it not so?”
“Yes,” said Herbert.
“Most people think so,” said Ralph. “But it was not poverty that drove me from the busy world to this solitude. Rich or poor, I had money enough for my wants. Here I have little use for money. To me it is a useless and valueless thing. You need have no hesitation in taking this. But on second thoughts, I had better give you more.” And he was about to draw forth more.
“No, no,” said Herbert, hastily. “It is quite sufficient. You are very, very kind. Some time I hope to repay you.”
“No,” said Ralph. “Do not talk of repayment. Let me have the pleasure of giving you this small sum.”
“How kind you are,” said Herbert, impulsively, “and to a stranger.”
“Yet my obligation to you is greater than yours to me,” said Ralph.