"You have just come over from Germany, I understand," said Bucholz, addressing his companion in German.
"Just arrived to-day," replied Bruner.
"Did you come alone?"
"Oh, no; I came with the old gentleman who has just gone to bed."
"Have you been long with him?"
"Long enough to want to get away from him," was the reply.
"What is the reason?" inquired Bucholz, with some indication of surprise and curiosity.
"Well, he does not use me properly, and I have grown tired of his abuse," answered Frank, sullenly.
After further questioning him, Bucholz learned the story of the old man's eccentricities, the fact of his large possessions, and the probability of his extending his travels as far West as California.
"I would not leave him," said Bucholz, after Frank had finished his narrative; "he may not live very long, and he will no doubt do something handsome for you."