Horatio Alger

“ Rodney was not mean, but he knew very well that a loan to Jasper would be a permanent one. Had Jasper been his friend even this consideration would not have inspired a refusal, but he knew very well that Jasper had not a particle of regard for him.
"I don't think I can oblige you, Jasper," he said.
"Why not? You get fifteen dollars a week."
"My expenses are considerable. Besides I am helping Mike, whose salary is very small. I pay the whole of the rent and I have paid for some clothes for him."
"You are spending your money very foolishly," said Jasper frowning. ”

“ My uncle expects me to buy my own clothes. You were lucky to get out of the store. Old Goodnow ought to give me ten dollars."
"Don't let him hear you speak of him as OLD Goodnow, Jasper."
"Oh, I'm smart enough for that. I mean to keep on the right side of the old chap. What sort of a man are you working for?"
"Mr. Sargent is a fine man."
"He isn't mean certainly. I should like to be in your shoes."
"If I hear of any similar position shall I mention your name?" asked Rodney, smiling.
"No; I could not take care of a kid. I hate them." ”

“ He came round to my room Wednesday evening, and asked me to lend him ten dollars."
"I presume you refused."
"Yes, sir. He is not in need. He succeeded to my place, and he has a home at the house of his uncle."
"He appears to be a very mean boy. Anonymous letters are always cowardly, and generally malicious. This seems to be no exception to the general rule."
"I hope it won't affect your feelings towards me, Mr. Sargent."
"Don't trouble yourself about that Rodney. I am not so easily prejudiced against one of whom I have a good opinion."
"I suppose this is Jasper's revenge," thought Rodney. ”