realize it. You needn't have got where you are. I would have helped
you out any time. Why didn't you write to me?"

"Write? And have you tell Nell Loring how your good little brother was
whining for help? She would have enjoyed that--after what she handed
me."

"I don't know what she said to you," said Corliss, glancing at his
brother. "But I know this: she didn't say anything that wasn't so. If
that's the reason you left home, it was a mighty poor one. You've
always had your own way, Will."

"Why shouldn't I? Who's got anything to say about it? You seem to
think that I always need looking after--you and Nell Loring. I can
look after myself."

"Doesn't look like it," said Corliss, gesturing toward the washstand.
"Had anything to eat to-day?"

"No, and I don't want anything."

"Well, wash up and we'll go and get some clothes and something to eat.
I'll wait."

"You needn't. Just give me a check--and I won't bother you after that."

"No. I said wash up! Get busy now!"

The younger man demurred, but finally did as he was told. They went
downstairs and out to the street. In an hour they returned, Will