“I will pay for to-night. If I stay to-morrow I will pay that in the morning.”
Oliver paid the money. He did not wish to arrange for meals at the hotel, for he did not know where he would be during the following day.
“John, show this gentleman to room 234.”
“And if Colonel Mendix comes in, will you let me know?”
“I will if I see him.”
Taking Oliver’s valise, the porter led the way to the elevator, and they were raised to the fifth floor. Number 234 proved to be a cozy room at the rear of the hall. It was well furnished, with all conveniences, even to the pens and ink that stood on a side table.
Throwing off his coat, vest, and hat, the boy took a good wash in the marble bowl and combed his hair. This refreshed him and made his head feel better. Then locking up the room so that his baggage would be safe, he went below to a neighboring restaurant, and procured a light supper.
The sight of the pens and ink in his room made him think of writing a letter to his father, and he spent the best part of the evening doing so. He told of all that had happened, and begged his father not to be angry at his having taken the matter in hand.
The letter finished, Oliver went out and posted it. Upon returning he asked about Colonel Mendix, and was told the gentleman had not yet come back.