"Yes; I guess so. My mother says it will take her some time to settle the estate." Gerald looked grave, remembering that it was his father's estate, and that his father's death appeared likely to make a great difference in his position and prospects. "After the estate is settled mother and I may go to Europe," continued Abel, complacently. None of the boys made any comments, and they soon separated. "Who is this Munroe Hill?" asked Abel, when he was left alone with Gerald. "His father is a lawyer." "Is he well off?" "I presume so. He lives in a nice house." "And John Holman?" "He works in a shoe shop. His father is dead, and he has to help support the family." "I thought he was poor. Did you notice that his pants were patched?" "Yes," said Gerald, gravely; "the poor fellow hasn't much money to spend on clothing." "Is he a friend of yours?" "Yes," replied Gerald, warmly; "he is a capital fellow." "Humph! I sha'n't care to associate with him. Mother likes to have me particular." "Do you think he is any the worse for his poor clothes?" "Of course he isn't a gentleman." "You and I have a different idea as to what constitutes a gentleman." The time was when Abel had not been able to dress much better than John Holman; but, as this was unknown to Gerald, he posed as one who was "born in the purple." "I shall try to get better acquainted with Munroe," proceeded Abel. "He seems like a gentleman." "Everybody likes him; but he is also a friend of John Holman." "It seems to me that society is rather mixed here." "We don't judge each other by clothes or a good bank account," said Gerald, manfully. "I do. I prefer to associate with those who are in my own social position." "Abel appears to be a snob," thought Gerald. "I am sure I sha'n't like him." On their way through the village they passed a drug-store. "I suppose no soda water is to be had in a town like this," said Abel, with a quiet smile. "Yes; we can get some in the drug-store. If you will come in I shall be glad to offer you some." "I don't mind," replied Abel, who seldom declined a treat. They entered the store and were speedily supplied. Gerald drew a dollar bill from his vest-pocket and paid the bill. "I wonder how much money he carries round with him?" thought Abel. "I must ask mother." "Now I guess we'll go home. I feel tired after my journey." "Very well." "Where did you go?" asked Mrs. Lane, when they re-entered the house. "I took Abel round the village, Mrs. Lane." "And what do you think of it, Abel?" asked his mother. "Oh, it'll do; but I'd rather live in the city." "The city would naturally be more attractive to a young person. You prefer it to Fulton, I hope?" "Yes; I hope I shall never go back there. I hate boarding-school." "I hope you don't hate study. At your age you can hardly have a sufficient education. There is a good academy here. I should like to have you attend next term."