Mr. Wright did not comment upon his father's generosity; instead, he
slid the money from the silver plate on to the table and began to
count it. Dr. Lavendar looked at him over his spectacles; when only
half a dozen coppers were left, he said suddenly:

"Samuel!"

The senior warden looked up; "Yes, sir?"

"Samuel, your father has spoken to me of you."

Mr. Wright looked down; then he slowly picked up the last penny.

"Yes; he spoke of you. Samuel, I have something to say to you of a
very serious nature."

"We have nine dollars and seventy-seven cents," said the senior
warden.

"Your father," said Dr. Lavendar, "has expressed a willingness to see
you."

Mr. Wright put the money into a small canvas bag, and pulling the
drawing-string up, wound it round and round the top; his hands
trembled.

"He has some concern about your Sam--as you have yourself. He is
disturbed because the boy has lost his heart to your tenant, Mrs.
Richie."