Robert—Don’t, Andy! It is my fault—my inability. You know it as well as I do. The best I’ve ever done was to make ends meet, and this year I can’t do that without the mortgage.
Andrew—[After a pause.] You mustn’t raise the mortgage, Rob. I’ve got over a thousand saved, and you can have that.
Robert—[Firmly.] No. You need that for your start in Buenos Aires.
Andrew—I don’t. I can———
Robert—[Determinedly.] No, Andy! Once and for all, no! I won’t hear of it!
Andrew—[Protestingly.] You obstinate old son of a gun! [There is a pause.] Well, I’ll do the best I can while I’m here. I’ll get a real man to superintend things for you—if he can be got. That’ll relieve you some. If he gets results, you can afford to pay him.
Robert—Oh, everything’ll be on a sound footing after harvest. Don’t worry about it.
Andrew—[Doubtfully.] Maybe. The prospects don’t look so bad.
Robert—And then I can pay the mortgage off again. It’s just to tide over.
Andrew—[After a pause.] I wish you’d let me help, Rob.
Robert—[With a tone of finality.] No. Please don’t suggest it any more. My mind’s made up on that point.
Andrew—[Slapping his brother on the back—
