But now the door was thrown boldly open, and the traveller whom the parson had met at the inn walked up to Mr.Dale, and said, "No! that's not the end of the matter.
You say the boy's a 'cute, clever lad ?" "Richard, have you been listening ?" exclaimed Mrs.Avenel.
"Well, I guess, yes,--the last few minutes." "And what have you heard ?" "Why, that this reverend gentleman thinks so highly of my sister Fairfield's boy that he offers to pay half of his keep at college.

Sir, I'm very much obliged to you, and there's my hand if you'll take it." The parson jumped up, overjoyed, and, with a triumphant glance towards Mrs.Avenel, shook hands heartily with Mr.Richard.
"Now," said the latter, "just put on your hat, sir, and take a stroll with me, and we'll discuss the thing businesslike.

Women don't understand business: never talk to women on business." With these words, Mr.Richard drew out a cigar-case, selected a cigar, which he applied to the candle, and walked into the hall.
Mrs.Avenel caught hold of the parson.

"Sir, you'll be on your guard with Richard.

Remember your promise." "He does not know all, then ?" "He?
No! And you see he did not overhear more than what he says.