To go back a little, it was chiefly owing to James Carson's influence
that Mark had entered the saloon.
When he learned that Mark's worldly prospects had improved, and that he
had a large supply of pocket money, he determined to cultivate his
acquaintance--though privately he thought Mark a disagreeable boy--with
the intention of obtaining for himself a portion of Mark's surplus
means.
At the first of the term he had made similar advances to Frank, but they
were coldly received, so much so that he did not think it worth while to
persevere in courting our hero's intimacy.
He succeeded better with Mark, his crafty nature teaching him how to
approach him.
"Mark," he said, with a great show of cordiality, "I am delighted to
hear of your good fortune. I always liked you, and I think you deserve
to be rich."
"Thank you!" said Mark, much gratified, for he liked flattery. "I am
sure I am very much obliged to you."
"Oh, not at all! I only say what I think. Shall I tell you why I am
particularly glad?"
"Yes, if you like," returned Mark, in some curiosity.
"Because I like you better than that young muff, your stepbrother. I
hope you won't be offended at my plain speaking," he added, artfully.
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