He blushed again, a deep red this time, but an instant later straightened up and spoke in a tone of sudden resolve.
"Most people dislike to speak of themselves," he said, "and I am no exception.

But you, who have kindly received me as a friend, after having generously saved me from an untimely death, have surely the right to know something about me--if, indeed, the subject interests you." "It is but natural that we should feel an interest in you, Mr.Jones," replied Mr.Merrick; "yet I assure you we have no desire to pry into your personal affairs.

You have already volunteered a general statement of your antecedents and the object of your visit to America, and that, I assure you, will suffice us.

Pardon me for asking an impertinent question." The boy seemed perplexed, now.
"I did not consider it impertinent, sir.

I made a business proposal to your nieces," he said, "and before they could accept such a proposal they would be entitled to know something of my financial standing." For a green, inexperienced youth, he spoke with rare acumen, thought Mr.
Merrick; but the old gentleman had now determined to shield the boy from a forced declaration of his finances, so he said: "My nieces can hardly afford to accept your proposition.