Part 42 (1/2)
”On business with you, sir. That is all.”
”So I supposed. Well, I am glad to see you. We are a small family, and lonely. I hope you will stay with us a few days.”
”As your guest?” inquired our hero, much surprised.
”Yes. That will enable us to transact this business at our leisure.”
”I shouldn't think you would invite me to your house,” said Gilbert, in surprise.
”Why not?”
”You think I am an impostor.”
”I don't feel sure of that.”
”You said so in the city.”
”I thought so in the city,” said Mr. Grey, with apparent frankness.
”Since I returned home I have been turning the matter over in my mind, and I don't feel so certain about it. You may be deceived.”
”I know I am not,” said Gilbert, firmly.
”Of course, you think so, my young friend. We won't dispute about it. I only want to find out the truth, and if you can prove your claim beyond any question I will do what is right. But there must be no doubt of it.”
”Of course, that is fair enough.”
”It seemed to me incredible that a son of my brother John should be living, and as he left some property, I thought that you might be playing a sharp game. You mustn't be offended at my plain speaking,” he added, with a smile.
”No, sir; certainly not. I am in favor of plain speaking. But I hope you will in time have a more favorable opinion of me.”
”I have already, or I would not invite you to become my guest. Have you your luggage with you?”
”Only a carpet-bag.”
”Where is that?”
”At the village hotel.”
”That is a poor place. You must stay here, and I will send for it.”
”I don't know what to say,” said Gilbert, not yet recovered from his astonishment.
”Then I will say for you that you accept without hesitation.”
”Thank you, sir.”
Mr. Grey rang the bell, and Pompey appeared.
”What's wanted, ma.s.sa?”