"I know now what it means to start a paper," he observed reflectively. "It means first to walk a good ways and then eat something. That's what we've been doing ever since we started."
"Better eat while we've got a chance," said Van Dorn. "If the 'Whole Family' fails we'll walk without eating."
"We can afford to eat on Van's new scheme," said Perner. "It's worth it."
Barrifield laughed comfortably.
"What is your scheme?" he asked, seeing that Perner was waiting anxiously to unload.
"Wait," interrupted Van Dorn. "Here's the waiter. Let's give the order, and then we'll have a couple of hours to talk while he's catching the clams."
Perner subsided, and each seized a bill of fare, which was studied with stern solemnity for some moments. Dinner was a matter of perhaps more respectful consideration with these rather prosperous bohemians than even the new paper, which they still regarded, and possibly with some reason, as a sort of farce, or than the Muses, whom they were inclined to woo somewhat cavalierly.
"I should think two portions of clams would be enough," suggested Van Dorn, at length; "then we can have something solid in the way of meat and things."
Perner protested.
"Oh, pshaw, Van! I want a full portion myself, and Barry wants one, too; don't you, Barry?"