“Not looking for a game to-night,” answered Harrow.
“Perhaps some of your friends are?” said Manners, in the way of one inclined to “butt in.” “I’ve been told Frank Merriwell would be here to-night. They say he’s a shark at everything, even billiards. I’d like to try him a go.”
He looked straight at Frank as he made this challenging remark.
“Mr. Merriwell—Mr. Manners,” said Harrow.
“Er—I beg your pardon, what name?” said Merry.
“Manners is his name.”
“Quite remarkable,” said Merry quietly. “Haven’t heard that name in some time. How do you do, Mr. Manners.”
“What do you say, are you good for a hundred points?” asked Manners. “I’d enjoy beating the great champion at something.”
“I beg to be excused this evening,” said Frank. “I didn’t come here for billiards or anything of that sort, but to meet these friends of mine.”
Ridgely laughed and pulled at Manners’ arm.