When Bob and Clip had left the scene Aaron Wolverton turned to Sam, and scowled at his unfortunate nephew, in a way which was by no means pleasant or reassuring.
"I've a good mind to flog you for all the trouble you've brought upon me," he said.
"You don't, hey? Haven't you sided with that upstart, the Burton boy?"
Sam was judiciously silent, for he saw his uncle was very much irritated.
"Suppose he did; is he your guardian or am I?"
"I'm glad you are willing to admit it. Then why did you give him the dollar?"
"Because his mother gave it to me. If you had given it to me, I wouldn't have done it."
"You'll have to wait a good while before I give you a dollar."
Sam was of the same opinion himself, but did not think it wise to say so.
"You deserve to be punished for what you have done," said his uncle, severely.
"I wish I were as strong and brave as Bob," thought Sam. "I don't see how he dares to stand up before Uncle Aaron and defy him. He makes me tremble."
The truth was, Sam was not made of heroic mold. He was a timid boy and was easily overawed. He lacked entirely the qualities that made Bob so bold and resolute. He could admire his friend, but he could not imitate him.
"Now, come home," said Wolverton, shortly.
When they reached home Sam was set to work. At twelve o'clock the bell rang for dinner. Sam dropped his axe (he had been splitting wood) and entered the kitchen, where the frugal meal was spread. His uncle was already sitting in his place, and Sam prepared to sit down in his usual chair.
"Samuel," said his uncle, "you have disobeyed me. You do not deserve any dinner."
Sam's countenance fell, for he was very hungry.
"You should have thought of that when you disobeyed me and gave your money to the Burton boy. This is intended as a salutary lesson, Samuel, to cure you of your stubbornness and disobedience."
"You are quite right, Aaron," said Miss Sally in her deep voice. "Samuel needs chastening."
Poor Sam slunk out of the door in a state of depression. Not being ordered to return to his work, he went out into the street, where he met Bob and Clip, and to them he told his tale of woe.
"Your uncle is as mean as they make 'em," said Bob. "Here, go into the baker's and buy some doughnuts and pie."