"Perhaps so, Dr. Sampson, but I wish to earn my own living without being
indebted to any one."

"Perhaps you are right, Ropes. I dare say I should feel so myself. When
do you propose leaving us?"

"Some time tomorrow, sir."

"I shall feel sad to have you go. You have been here so long that
you seem to me like a son. But we must submit to the dispensations of
Providence--" and Dr. Sampson blew a vigorous blast upon his red silk
handkerchief. "I will give you the balance due in the morning."

"Very well, sir."

Rodney was glad to be left alone. He had no faith in Dr. Sampson's
sympathy. The doctor had the reputation of being worth from thirty to
forty thousand dollars, and his assumption of being a poor man Rodney
knew to be a sham.

He went to bed early, for tomorrow was to be the beginning of a new life
for him.



CHAPTER III.


A STRANGE DISAPPEARANCE.