“I think my father is at home; you can ring and see,” said James, who could be kind to one who was willing to acknowledge his inferiority. Herbert rang the bell, and was ushered into the presence of Squire Leech, who was examining some papers in the back parlor. CHAPTER XII POOR AND PROUD “Good morning, Squire Leech,” said Herbert, politely. “Good morning,” said the squire, jumping to the conclusion that the Carters had made up their minds to sell their place. “Do you wish to see me?” “Yes, sir; I hope I don't interrupt you.” “Go on,” said the squire, waving his hand. “I am busy, to be sure, but I can give you a few minutes.” He resolved to take advantage of Mrs. Carter's necessities, and make a smaller offer for the place. In this way he would make her suffer for her former obstinate refusal to entertain his proposition. His face fell when Herbert said: “I came to ask you if you could give me employment on one of your farms. My mother has been sick, and I feel that I ought to be doing something to earn money.” “Ahem!” said the squire, “I leave all such matters to Mr. Banks. Was that all you wished to say to me?” “I believe so,” said Herbert. “Will there be any use in applying to Mr. Banks?” “I don't know whether he has got help enough or not. Your mother has been sick, hasn't she?” “Yes, sir; all winter.” “I heard of it. I suppose you found it expensive, eh?” “Yes, sir. Neither of us could earn anything.” “You are in debt, then?” “No, sir. My uncle left us some money last year. That kept us along.” “It's pretty much used up now, I suppose?” “Not quite.” Herbert was inclined to be surprised at the squire's apparent interest in their affairs, but the motive soon became apparent. “Well, you have made up your mind to sell the house now, I suppose?” said the squire. “No, we hadn't thought of it.” “But you'll have to.” “Not if I can get employment,” said Herbert. “Our expenses are very small, and we can live on a little.” The great man frowned. “That is all nonsense,” he said, impatiently. “It is quite impossible for you to hold on to the house. I am willing to give you cash down three hundred dollars over and above the mortgage for it.” “That isn't as much as you offered last year,” said Herbert, shrewdly. “I believe I did offer three hundred and fifty then.” “Your last offer was fifty dollars more than that.” “It may be so, but I told your mother that it wasn't a standing offer. She must accept it then or not at all.” “We don't ask you to purchase,” said Herbert, independently. “I had no idea of such a thing when I came here.” “That makes no difference. You will have to sell, of course, and I have made up my mind to offer you three hundred and fifty. If you had taken me up at the time, I would have given you fifty more. You can't expect that now, however.” “We don't expect anything. The house is not for sale.” “Then, why are you taking up my valuable time?” demanded the squire, frowning with displeasure.