But the explanation did not satisfy Mr.Preston.

He said Oscar knew he was needed that afternoon, and he ought not to have asked to go away, or even to have thought of it.

Even if Ralph was willing to do his work, he did not like his putting so much upon his younger and weaker brother.

He then complimented Ralph for his industry, and his willingness to make himself useful, and held him up to Oscar as a pattern he would do well to imitate.

He concluded his lecture to the latter, by drawing from his pocket a quarter of a dollar, and presenting it to Ralph, as a reward for his services.