'Stemp,' said Mr. Van Torp, 'this is a heathen town.'
'Yes, sir.' [{132}]
'I suppose I'm thought close about money,' continued the millionaire, thinking aloud, 'but I call five dollars a day dear, for this room, don't you?'
'Yes, sir, I do indeed! I call it downright robbery. That's what I call it, sir.'
'Well, I suppose they call it business here, and quite a good business too. But I'd like to buy the whole thing and show 'em how to run it. They'd make more in the end.'
'Yes, sir. I hope you will, sir. Beg pardon, sir, but do you think it would cost a great deal?'
'They'd ask a great deal, anyway,' answered the millionaire thoughtfully. 'Stemp, suppose you get me out some things and then take a look around, while I try to get a wash in that—that tea-service there.'
Mr. Van Torp eyed the exiguous basin and jug with some curiosity and much contempt. Stemp, impassive and correct under all circumstances, unstrapped a valise, laid out on the bed what his master might need, and inquired if he wished anything else.
'There isn't anything else,' answered Mr. Van Torp, gloomily.
'When shall I come back, sir?'