Blair Collection > Rhys Lewis, minister of Bethel

RHYS LEWIS. 277
pa-wn -ticket of your father's ? You ought to have something
to remember him by."
I must tell the truth, however ugly. Some strange, im-
proper spirit, took possession, of me — some strong desii'e to
throttle the churl. But I had strength to resist the impulse —
as was best for me, no doubt.
" Open the door," I said, " and let me get away."
" You haven't paid the gate," he observed.
Son of my mother, I gave him all the money I had about
m.e, which was two shillings.
"Thank you. I shall see you again, when you are more
flush," he remarked, taking a latch-key from his pocket and
opening the door.
JJirectly I found my feet outside, I turned upon him, and
looking him resolutely in the face, said, "Uncle, I have you
under my thumb now. I've found out your retreat— the de:i
you are hiding in— and if ever you show your face to me again,
or I hear that you've been seen in the neighbourhood, or any
of your work is being carried on here, remember, I shall re-
veal the whole to the police."
"What!" he cried. " Are you going to split on me? Do
you want to slaver your own clothes ?"
"■ As sure as you're a living man," I replied.
"Look here," he returned; "you'll never see me again.
So do your worst, my proud chicken." And he tried to spit in
my face as he slammed the door in my teeth.
I went joyfully home. The great burden which had weished
upon my mind had dropped to the ground. And yet I could
not help asking myself, had my uncle told the truth ? I knew
he was better versed in telling lies.