"I haven't a card with me, Dr. Ferguson," said the boy; "but my name is Allen Allston."
His traveling companion grasped his hand, and shook it with a remarkable exhibition of warmth, considering their short acquaintance.
"I am delighted to meet you, my young friend," he said. "Are you going far?"
"To New York, sir."
"Indeed! Then we shall be traveling companions for nearly three hours. How delightful!"
The prospect did not seem quite so delightful to Al; for, although he was glad to have some one to talk to, he began to fear that the Rev. Dr. Ferguson might not prove a wholly congenial companion.
"Are you a resident of Rockton?" went on the doctor.
"No, sir."
"Only a visitor there?"
"That's all."