The red lips opened and shut with the precision of a steel trap. They softened now in a species of smile.
"I see, Morton, you had a little argument with a horse this afternoon."
George managed to smile back.
"Nothing to speak of, sir."
"I wish it had been. I take a pleasure in punishing you. It isn't biblical, but it's human. I'm only sorry I can't devise a punishment to fit the crime."
"It was no crime," George said bravely, "no insult."
"Keep your mouth shut. Unfortunately I can't do much more than run you away from here, for I don't care to evict your parents from their home for your folly; and they do not support you. Mr. Evans will pay you off in the morning with a month's extra wages."
"I won't take a cent I haven't earned," George said.
Old Planter studied him with more curiosity.
"You're a queer livery stable boy."