We answered his questions in a fairly business-like manner until we came to that about the fathers. Here there was an interlude. For Billy had to explain, in succession, that he had no father, and no mother, and no brothers, and no sisters—indeed, no relations at all that he knew of. And there was some emotion at this point.
"Bless my soul," said the old gentleman, "that's very sad—very sad indeed. But who pays for your schooling?"
"A friend of my mater's," said Billy. "He's very good to me and has me to his house for the holidays."
"And gives you plenty of pocket-money?"
"Lots," answered Billy.
The old gentleman ruminated, and there was more emotion.
"Then you are not an unhappy boy?" he said at length.
"Not a bit," answered Billy.
"Thank God for that! Thank God for that! I should be very sorry to learn you were unhappy. I hope you never will be. You don't look unhappy."
"I'm not," repeated Billy.