CHAPTER VII
“Wireless Shoes”
Two more weeks elapsed, and Guy was authorized by the specialist to “throw away” his glasses. This he did joyfully, for now he would be able to see something of London in its natural colors. He had heard much of the great city’s buildings, black from the smoke-laden fog, but was now pleased to find that they were not nearly so unsightly as they had been described to him.
His association with Smithers continued with more or less intimacy up to the time of the departure for Liverpool to take passage for America. The man persisted in making himself agreeable in a sort of inconsequential manner, and the boy could see no reason for repelling his friendly advances, inasmuch as they seemed to be genuine. Indeed, the Bond street jeweler was cunningly skilled in the art of affability and could, on occasion, advance his purpose by making himself useful as well as entertaining.
On the last Saturday of Guy’s sojourn in London, Smithers invited him to take another motor ride, this time through other parts of the city and adjoining suburbs. As they were spinning back toward the hotel in the evening, the conversation turned upon Guy’s expected departure for America a few days later.
“What day are you going to leave?” asked the jewel merchant, introducing the subject.
“Wednesday,” Guy replied.
“Well, I’m sorry you’re going, but glad your eyes are all right. Hope you come back some time again. When you do, look me up, and I’ll be at your service. I’m a lonesome fellow when alone and like to pick up folks and give ’em a good time.”
“I’ve appreciated your kindness,” the boy responded warmly. “I wish I could return the favor.”
“Oh, it’s nothing, nothing at all. You’re perfectly welcome. I took a personal pleasure in doing it. But, by the way, you can do me a favor if you will. Maybe you’ll be a little interested in the idea, too, as it has a kind of affinity for your hobby. I have a friend in New York who is troubled with rheumatism in the feet, and I want to send him a pair of wireless shoes.”
“Wireless shoes!” exclaimed Guy. “That’s a new one on me.”