Page:A Colonial Wooing.djvu/63

 "Does thee really think that Ruth would look with favor on my visits and—"

"William, now and for all time let me say that I must not hear Ruth discussed in this shop. There is a limit to my patience if none to others' lack of judgment; and isn't it very unchristian to be engaged in such idle conversation, and unworthy a man to talk so freely of other people, and of a most worthy young woman at that? Do confine thyself to thy work and to what we spoke of. I will gladly buy thy interest, for I feel that we can thrive better if more widely planted."

"I did not know thee was dissatisfied. Thee has said nothing like this until now; and why, as I have been taught my trade, should I not buy thee out?" asked William, and he looked very uncomfortable as he spoke, for it was a dangerous question, as he had learned to depend upon his partner whenever serious matters arose, and feared his own judgment upon most occasions.

"I would rather buy than sell," replied John, "and I do not see in what manner it is