It left me just three dollars short of my fare
home; so I stepped into the Bible House--you know the Bible House?--
and just stated the case to the head clerk, and said I would be
obliged if he would lend me the amount. Willy," Dr. Lavendar got very
red; "I assure you--"
"You don't say so, sir!" said William King respectfully; but he bent
down and pulled Danny's ear.
"Yes," said Dr. Lavendar; "yes, indeed! I will not repeat what he
said; you would be indignant. I just mention the circumstance to show
you how differently people look at things. If any gentleman got into
such a fix in Old Chester, of course he would just speak to Sam
Wright, or you, or me. Or take your own case; if any stranger came on
business at dinner-time, you would say, 'Sit down, sir'!"
William thought of Martha and moved uneasily in his chair.
"But," proceeded Dr. Lavendar, "it is not so everywhere. Convenience
is considered. It isn't hospitable; but you can't say it's wicked?"
"Dr. Lavendar," said William King, "you don't believe that was the
reason."
The old minister sighed. "I'm afraid I don't, my boy; but I thought
maybe you might."
"No, sir! There's something wrong with that fellow. I don't mean to
judge, but somehow, instinctively, I don't trust him."
"Well," said Dr. Lavendar; "I wouldn't judge; but--I'd trust my
instincts."
William grinned; then he sighed. "I won't tell Mrs.
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