I'm responsible for that boy; in a manner of speaking, I adopted him because--well, because he flattered me by pretending to admire me.

It was a unique experience.

I took Buddy for my own.

Will you let me handle this matter ?" The speaker looked from one parent to the other, and they saw that his face was grimly set.
"Give me my way and I'll bring that young rascal to time or--" He shrugged, he smiled faintly.

"Give me permission to treat him as if he really were my own, will you ?" "You got my leave," said the father; but Ma Briskow bristled.
"Don't you dast to hurt him," she cried.
Again Gray shrugged, this time with resignation.