But she ominously shook her head.
'I am afraid there will not be any more pocket-money for you this term!' she exclaimed—and, suddenly understanding, I walked dejectedly away. Before I had gone many yards Smythe took my arm.
'I can lend you fourpence, old chap,' he said.
'Awful ass if you do,' cried Augustus, who had a knack of overhearing what was not intended for his ears.
'Why am I an ass?' demanded Smythe.
'Because Everard will never pay you back.'
'Suppose I don't want him to pay me back?'
'Oh, well!' said Augustus, 'of course, if he is beggar enough to take your money!'
I should have liked to kick Augustus as he walked away with a snigger; but at least he had made it impossible to take advantage of Smythe's offer. It was a new and painful experience to stay outside the confectioner's shop while the other fellows entered, and the matter was freely discussed in my presence by Smythe and the rest on our return. Indeed, justice compelled me to agree with Barton's opinion that, as Turton stood uncommonly little chance of being paid for the current term's board and tuition, it was scarcely to be expected that he should feel inclined to provide me with additional pocket-money.