"
Jack Carter had in his hand a bottle and a tin mug.
"Strangers," said he, "Jack Carter's a poor man, but he's not so
poor that he can't offer a glass of wine to a friend."
As he spoke, he poured out a liberal mug of wine and offered it to
Bradley.
Our friend Bradley was not a member of a temperance society, and he
could not resist the temptation. His conscience smote him when he
thought of the suspicions he had cherished, and there was a sudden
revulsion.
"After all," thought he, "Jack Carter is a good fellow. He don't
look it, to be sure, but a man can't help his looks What is it the
poet says, 'A man may smile and be a villain still.' Jack's a rough
customer, but he's treatin' Ben and me tiptop."
"I drink your health, Jack," he said cordially. "You've treated Ben
and me like gentlemen, and we're glad to know you. You're the right
sort."
And he drained the mug.
Jack Carter filled it again, and passed it to Ben.
"Take a drink, boy," he said. "It will make you feel good."
"No, thank you," said Ben politely.
"What's the matter?" asked Jack, frowning. "Why won't you drink?"
"I never drink," answered Ben. "I promised my father I wouldn't, and
I can't break my word.
Pages:
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112