Horatio Alger

“ Alonzo turned pale, and looked much discomposed.
"Of what are you accusing my boy?" asked Mrs. Pitkin, ready to contend for her favorite. "So that boy has been telling lies about him, has he? and you believe scandalous stories about your own flesh and blood?"
"Not exactly that, Lavinia."
"Well, your near relation, and that on the testimony of a boy you know nothing about. When Lonny is so devoted to you, too!"
"I never noticed any special devotion," said Mr. Carter, amused. "You are mistaken, however, about Philip trying to injure him. ”

“ Pitkin, looking relieved, "that is as you say."
"I have other views for Philip," said Mr. Carter. "He is with me as my private secretary."
"Is he living with you?" asked his niece, in alarm.
"Yes."
"There was no need of taking a stranger, Uncle Oliver. We should be glad to have Alonzo act as your secretary, though of course we should want him to stay at home."
"I shall not deprive you of Alonzo," said Mr. Carter, with a tinge of sarcasm in his tone. "Philip will suit me better." ”