“Of course, it was,” said Tom.
“He could have had no other object than to seek us out, and see what he could get out of us. For my part, I would advise you to recommend him to go back.”
“He has secured a place, it seems, and would not be likely to give it up.”
“It's a great pity he should have got into the same counting-room with Tom. He will presume on the relationship as soon as he finds it out.”
Mrs. Stanton need not have been alarmed, for Herbert was too high-spirited to seek an intimacy where he had reason to think it would be disagreeable. But his aunt knew nothing of him, and judged him by herself.
“He's there, and it can't be helped,” said Mr. Stanton.
“At any rate, if he does stay in the city,” persisted Mrs. Stanton, “I hope you'll give him to understand that he needn't call here more than once in three months. That is as much as he can expect.”
“After all, he is my sister's son,” said Mr. Stanton. “I can't feel that this would be quite kind in us.”
“Leave it to me, then. If you're too soft-hearted, Mr. Stanton, I will take all the responsibility, and the blame, if there is any.”
“Well, I think you've said enough on the subject,” said her husband. “Tom, run upstairs and bring me a cigar. You know where I keep the cigar box.”