"Certainly, Robert," was the reply, but the lawyer's manner showed some surprise. He knew the circumstances of the Rushtons, and he had not supposed they had any money on hand. "How much is it?"
"Six hundred and thirty-five dollars," answered Robert, producing it. "Will you count it, and see if it is all right?"
"Is this your money?" asked the lawyer, laying down his pen and gazing at Robert in astonishment.
"Yes, sir," said Robert, enjoying his surprise. "I will tell you how I got it."
So the story was told, with a modest reserve as to his own courage, but still showing, without his intending it, how nobly he had behaved.
"Give me your hand, Robert," said Mr. Paine, cordially. "You have shown yourself a hero. We shall be proud of your company to tea to-morrow evening."
Robert flushed with gratification at the high compliment conveyed in these words.
What did he care then for Halbert Davis and his petty malice! He had the approval of his own conscience, the good opinion of those whom he most respected and a provision against want sufficient to avert all present anxiety.
"There is one thing more, Mr. Paine," he added. "It's about the boat Will was kind enough to lend me."
"Have you seen the carpenter about repairing it?"
"Yes, sir, and he will attend to it as soon as he can spare the time. But that was not what I wanted to say. I think I ought to bear the expense of repairing it. I would have spoken about it at first, but then I had no money, and didn't know when I should have any. Will you be kind enough to take as much of my money as will be needed to pay Mr. Plane's bill when it comes in?"
"Certainly not, Robert. It was not your fault that the boat was injured."
"It wouldn't have happened if I had not borrowed it. It isn't right that the expense should fall on you."
"Don't trouble yourself about that, Robert. I am able and willing to pay it. It is very honorable in you to make the offer, and I like you the better for having made it. Won't you need any of this money for present expenses?"
"Perhaps I had better take the thirty-five dollars. Mother may be in want of something."
Robert received back the sum named, and returned home, much pleased with his interview.
About seven o'clock, sitting at the window of the little cottage, he saw Hester Paine opening the front gate. He sprang to his feet and opened the door.