"This morning."

"Is that true? Are you really a poor boy?"

"Yes."

John Bundy was astonished, but on the whole he was not saddened. In the
estimation of the school Rodney had always ranked higher than he, and
been looked upon as the star pupil in point of wealth.

Now that he was dethroned John himself would take his place. This would
be gratifying, though just at present, and till the beginning of the
next month, he would be distressed for ready money.

"Well, that's a stunner!" he said. "How do you feel about it? Shall you
stay in school?"

"No; I can't afford it. I must get to work."

"Isn't there anything left--not a cent?"

"There may be a few dollars."

"And then," said Bundy with a sudden thought, "there is this casket of
jewelry. You can sell it for a good deal of money."

"I don't mean to sell it."

"Then you're a fool; that's all I've got to say."