"Uncle Benjamin would be the first to proclaim my innocence," said Robert, his voice vibrant with emotion.
"To tell the truth, Rob, I don't know whether to be sorry his old scrawl's canceled or not. I had my doubts how I fared at Uncle Ben's hands. Mother said my half was hunky, but you know uncle hadn't that respect for my precious person she has." Harry's laugh showed that he was well aware of his mother's weakness in that regard. "How was it? Do you know? Did the old gentleman forget me?"
"I believe we were treated nearly alike," answered Robert.
"Gad, then I owe you $5,000,000——"
"Did you come here to insult me?"
At this outburst of indignation the sheriff's deputy drew near.
"That was nothing, Rob," said Harry, sobering up. "Only my cursed thoughtlessness. I'm sorry, on my word, you've got into the fix."
"Carry your condolences somewhere else."
"Oh, well——"
"I was always literal and I mean now what I say. Your apology only makes the matter worse."