CHAPTER XIII

THE SPIDER AND THE FLY


"Uncle," said John Wade, "you spoke of inviting Frank Fowler to occupy
a room in the house. Why don't you do it? It would be more convenient to
you and a very good chance for him."

"I should like it," said Mr. Wharton, "but Mrs. Bradley did not seem to
regard it favorably when I suggested it."

"Oh, Mrs. Bradley is unused to boys, and she is afraid he would give her
trouble. I'll undertake to bring her around."

"I wish you would, John. I don't think Frank would give any trouble, and
it would enliven the house to have a boy here. Besides, he reminds me of
George, as I told you the other day."

"I agree with you, uncle," he said. "He does remind me a little of
George."

"Well, Mrs. Bradley, what do you think I have done?" asked John,
entering the housekeeper's room directly after his interview with his
uncle.

"I don't know, Mr. John," she answered.

"I have asked him to give that boy a room in the house."