"I can certainly spare that much," said Keith, laughing.
"How is Norman?" asked the General.
Keith was conscious of a feeling of discontent. His countenance fell.
"Why, I don't know. I don't see much of him these days."
"Ah! I want to go to see him."
"The fact is, we have--er--had--. There has been an unfortunate misunderstanding between us. No one regrets it more than I; but I think I can say it was not at all my fault, and I have done all and more than was required of me."
"Ah, I am very sorry for that. It's a pity--a pity!" said the old General. "What was it about?"
"Well, I don't care to talk about it, sir. But I can assure you, I was not in the least to blame. It was caused mainly, I believe, by that fellow, Wickersham."
"He's a scoundrel!" said the General, with sudden vehemence.
"He is, sir!"