Page:Dave Porter at Oak Hall.djvu/48

34 was grateful, and when fifty dollars in cash was placed on the table before him, his eyes filled with tears of joy.

"Take that and use it as you need it," said Oliver Wadsworth. "And if you find that you need more, do not hesitate to let me know. And when Aaron Poole comes again, send him to me."

"It's very good of you to do this, Mr. Wadsworth," said Dave. "I must thank you, too, for it helps me out as well as Mr. Potts."

"I haven't got around to helping you yet, Dave," said Oliver Wadsworth, with a quiet smile. "I must go out of town to-day, but to-morrow I want you to come and take dinner with us, at six o'clock. It's my wife's invitation as well as my own. How about you, professor? Will you come too? If so, I'll send my carriage for you."

"If I—I am not too old—and too feeble, Mr. Wadsworth——"

"Nonsense! You come along, and we'll take care of you. The carriage will be here at five, sharp. Good-bye," and then the manufacturer hurried away to keep another engagement.

"He's what I call a real gentleman," cried Dave, when he and the old man were alone. "Isn't that so, professor?"

"It's like a dream to me, Dave. I'm afraid I'll wake up and find it untrue."