Part 54 (2/2)
”Squire Sheldon,” said Jefferson, ”you were kind enough to invite Rodney and myself to supper some evening. I am sorry to say that we must decline, as we leave Burton tomorrow.”
”Use your own pleasure, Mr. Pettigrew,” said the squire coldly.
”It doesn't seem to disappoint the squire very much,” remarked Jefferson, laughing, when the great man of the village had pa.s.sed on.
”It certainly is no disappointment to me.”
”Nor to me. The little time I have left I can use more pleasantly than in going to see the squire. I have promised to supper at my uncle's tonight--that is, I have promised for both of us.”
Returning to New York, Jefferson and Rodney set about getting ready for their Western journey. Rodney gave some of his wardrobe to Mike Flynn, and bought some plain suits suitable for his new home.
While walking on Broadway the day before the one fixed for his departure he fell in with Jasper Redwood.
”Have you got a place yet Ropes?” asked Jasper.
”I am not looking for any.”
”How is that?” asked Jasper in some surprise.
”I am going to leave the city.”
”That is a good idea. All cannot succeed in the city. You may find a chance to work on a farm in the country.”
”I didn't say I was going to the country.”
”Where are you going, then?”
”To Montana.”
”Isn't that a good way off?”
”Yes.”
”What are you going to do there?”
”I may go to mining.”
”But how can you afford to go so far?”
”Really, Jasper, you show considerable curiosity about my affairs. I have money enough to buy my ticket, and I think I can find work when I get out there.”
”It seems to me a crazy idea.”
”It might be--for you.”
”And why for me?” asked Jasper suspiciously.
”Because you might not be willing to rough it as I am prepared to do.”
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