I'm gladder than I can say to find
you so easy in your old age. Neither Mike nor me did our duty by
you, that's only too sure. I wish I could have the time back again;
but what's the good of that? Can you tell me anything about Mike?'
'Yes. He died in Australia, about four years ago.'
'Did he now? Well, I've been in America, but I never got so far as
Australia. So Mike's dead, is he? I hope he had better luck than
me.'
The old man did not cease from examining his son's countenance.
'What is your position, at present?' he asked, after a pause. 'You
don't look unprosperous.'
'Nothing to boast of, father. I've gone through all kinds of trades.
In the States I both made and lost money. I invented a new method of
nickel-plating, but it did me no good, and then I gave up that line
altogether. Since I've been back in England--two years about--
I've mostly gone in for canvassing, advertising agencies, and that
kind of thing. I make an honest living, and that's about all. But I
shouldn't wonder if things go a bit better now; I feel as if I was
settled at last. What with having a home of my own, and you and
Janey near at hand--You won't mind if I come and see you both
now and then?'
'I shall hope to see you often,' replied the other, still keeping
his grave face and tone.
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