didn't dress him decently."

Major Norton looked annoyed.

"What does the boy mean?" he said. "What does he expect?"

"He should be dressed as well as I am," said Oscar maliciously.

"Quite out of the question," said the major hastily. "Your clothes
cost a mint of money."

"Of course, you want me to look well, father. I am your son, and he
is only your hired boy."

"I don't want folks to talk," said the major, who was sensitive to
public opinion. "Don't you think his clothes are good enough?"

"Of course they are; but I'll tell you what, father," said Oscar,
with a sudden idea, "you know that suit of mine that I got stained
with acid?"

"Yes, Oscar," said the major gravely. "I ought to remember it. It
cost me thirty-four dollars, and you spoiled it by your carelessness."

"Suppose you give that to Joe?" suggested Oscar.

"He's a good deal larger than you. It wouldn't fit him; and,
besides, it's stained."

"What right has a hired boy to object to a stain? No matter if it is