The blood welled slowly up in Tracy's cheek, and he said with a grade of
injured dignity almost ducal:
"Is that for me?"
"Yes."
"What is the purpose of it?"
"I want to speak to you--in private."
"This spot is private enough for me."
Marsh was surprised; and not particularly pleased. He approached and
said:
"Oh, in public, then, if you prefer. Though it hasn't been my way."
The boarders gathered to the spot, interested.
"Speak out," said Tracy. "What is it you want?"
"Well, haven't you--er--forgot something?"
"I? I'm not aware of it."
"Oh, you're not? Now you stop and think, a minute."
"I refuse to stop and think. It doesn't interest me. If it interests
you, speak out."
"Well, then," said Marsh, raising his voice to a slightly angry pitch,
"You forgot to pay your board yesterday--if you're bound to have it
public."
Oh, yes, this heir to an annual million or so had been dreaming and
soaring, and had forgotten that pitiful three or four dollars. For
penalty he must have it coarsely flung in his face in the presence of
these people--people in whose countenances was already beginning to dawn
an uncharitable enjoyment of the situation.
"Is that all! Take your money and give your terrors a rest.
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