"Isn't he a dandy?" said the hotel clerk, admiringly. "You'll never catch him. The traditional Frenchman's flea was a graven image compared with that fellow. In your line of business you can profit by the lesson he has just given you. He is an artist in 'bluffing.'"
Before Al could reply Mr. Wattles entered the office and approached him with outstretched hand.
CHAPTER XVII.
"I WANT YOU."
"I thought I should find you here," the manager said. "I want to offer you my congratulations before I say another word."
"Your congratulations upon what, Mr. Wattles?" asked Al.
"Why, upon the way you have worked things here, of course. I heard about it before I left Boomville this morning. That interview is out of sight."
"I wish it was," groaned Al.
"Eh?"
The boy expressed his opinion of the interview in very emphatic terms.