"I never like to dine alone," said Howell Foster. "I am glad I fell in with you, Jed."

 

"So am I," answered Jed. "I am more glad than you have any idea of," he said to himself.

 

"What will you order?" asked Mr. Foster, pushing over the bill of fare to his companion.

 

"I have a healthy appetite and shall enjoy anything," said Jed with a smile. "Please order the same for me as for yourself."

 

Howell Foster was rather proud of his gastronomic¹ knowledge, and took this as a compliment.

 

"You can trust me to do that," he replied. "I am used to the place and know what they succeed best in."

 

[Pg 233]

 

Thereupon he ordered a dinner which Jed found delicious. No expense was spared, and Jed, glancing at the bill when it was brought, found that the charge was three dollars and a half.

 

During the repast the host kept up a bright and chatty conversation.

 

"I hope you enjoyed your dinner," he said, when it was over.

 

"Actions speak louder than words," answered Jed with a smile.

 

"This is a good, reliable place. I advise you to come here often."

 

"What would he say if he could see the inside of my pocket-book?" thought Jed. "I am afraid," he said aloud, "it is too expensive for my means."

 

"Yes, probably; I didn't think of that. By the way, what have you in view?"

 

"I hardly know yet."

 

"Come round and see me some day," and Foster handed Jed his card.

 

"Thank you, sir."

 

"Will you have a cigar?"

 

"No, thank you, sir. I don't smoke."

 

[Pg 234]

 

"It would be money in my pocket if I didn't. My cigars cost me last year five hundred dollars."

 

"I wish I was sure of that for my entire income," thought Jed.

 

They parted at the entrance to the hotel. It was clear from his manner and speech that Howell Foster thought Jed in easy circumstances.

 

It made the boy feel almost like an impostor, but he reflected that he had done nothing to give Mr. Foster a false impression.

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