You see, Thompson isn't a very successful merchant.

He has needed money at times, and borrowed it of Hopkins at a high rate of interest.

It's a pretty big sum now, and Hopkins holds a mortgage on the stock.

If he ever forecloses, as he will do some day, Thompson will be ruined.

So he's obliged to shout for Hopkins, whether he believes in him or not." "I think I understand him now," said Patsy, smiling.