"I do
implore you, sir, not to be weak and fullish. Don't take him to your
boosum. He's a rat still--an' he'll gnaw and devour the little that's
left to you, so sure as I sit here."
But it was all no use, as he could easily see. Mr. Bates raised his
eyes, moved his feet, and then spoke gently but proudly.
"I thank you, William, for your well-meant intentions. I have listened
to what you wished to say. Now shall we talk of something else?"
"Yes--but with just this one proviso added. Will you remember that I
am your banker, for the full half of what the banker's worth? If the
pinch comes, draw on me."
"I thank you again, William. But I shan't need help."
"I think you will."
"Then to speak quite truly, I couldn't take help, William, I really
couldn't."
"Why not? Think of all you've done for me. Don't deny me the pleasure
of doing something for you."
"I'll consider, William. Please let it rest there."
Dale could say no more and they both sat silent for a little while.
Then old Bates spoke again.
"William," he said, "if you'll excuse me, I really won't stay. You
have--to tell the truth--agitated me."
"Indeed I'm sorry, sir. But don't punish me by going."
"I am not quite up to merry-making.
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