Didn't I tell you it belongs to father? Frank is a
poor boy--as poor as you," said Mark, in a tone of evident satisfaction.
"Or you," added Herbert, pointedly.
"You are mistaken," said Mark, quickly. "I am father's heir."
"Suppose your father dies--how will the property go?"
"I suppose something will be left to Frank, unless my father leaves me
the property, with directions to provide for him."
"Would you think that right and just?" demanded Herbert, indignantly.
"Of course I would. My stepmother knew what she was about when she made
her will. I see you are surprised. You won't be quite to thick with
Frank, now, I expect."
"Why shouldn't I be?"
"Because he is just as poor as you are. He never can help you."
"Mark Manning, I believe you are about the meanest boy I ever
encountered, and you judge me by yourself!"
"Do you mean to insult me? Mind what you say!" blustered Mark,
unpleasantly surprised at this outburst from a boy whom he expected
would now transfer his allegiance from Frank to himself.
"I mean that you and your father have robbed Frank of his inheritance,
and glory in it, and you think that I am mean enough to desert him
because he is no longer rich.
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