his dressing-gown on, a bottle of medicine by his side, and other indications of illness. But instead, there was the old man seated upright in hischair, with papers and writing material before him, staring at his visitor with an irritated expression, and looking the very reverse of weak.
“Ahem! Uncle Conrad,” began Haywood, “I called yester to see you, but――”
“Yes, I know you did,” replied the colonel, curtly. “You say you wish to see me on a matter of business. What is it?”
“Yes, it was a small matter, and not of so very much consequence. Yesterday, when you sent word that you were ill, I was quite troubled about you. So I thought I would step up this morning――”
“Oh, then you haven’t any particular business with me. I’m perfectly well now, if that is all you want; never was in better health.”
Haywood’s thick beard concealed the flush of vexation that arose to his face. It was something new for him to meet with such a reception. But he had for a long time exercised a certain control over his uncle, and he could not give it up without a struggle. So he did not take the hint that his presence was no longer desired, but still lingered, and said:
“Two nephews of yours are in town. I was surprised at your receiving the son of――”
“What is it to you, sir?” asked the old man, in wrath. “My brother is dead. Our love or hate can no longer affect him. And if I choose to see his son, I suppose it is my right, is it not?”
“Oh, certainly. And your brother is dead, is he? Dear me, how sudden! Well, it quite overcomes me. Ahem! Very sad that he should have departed without making restitution. But I was going to ask you if you could accommodate with a thousand dollars this morning.”
“No, nor a thousand cents. But stay—I expect a dividendto-morrow or next day from California, and then I may let you have it. Good-morning.”
This was delivered in a very emphatic tone, and left no pretext for hesitation. So, with outward serenity but inward vexation, Haywood left the room. He did not enter the parlor again, being in no mood to converse with those who had caused him so much disturbance of mind. He passed silently through the hall, a little faster than his usual pace, and was soon on his way back to the store.
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