Tom chuckled with glee. He was highly satisfied with the first day’s adventure in America. In excellent spirits, the trio rode uptown. While en route Bill briefly told, in turn, of catching sight of Tom, and the consequences thereof.
An hour later Fred brought them to a neatly nestled house. There was a hand-ball court on the property, and Fred saw to it that they were made to feel at home. Then he entered the house.
“Elsie,” said Fred, when first greetings were over and they were comfortably settled, “I’ve something to tell you.”
“What is it, Fred?”
“I—I couldn’t buy you the engagement ring—be—because I lost the money.”
“That is too bad! But don’t mind it, dear. I can wait.”
“It’s nice of you to say it, but I lost the money on stocks.”
“Tell me about it,” she requested calmly, though there was a break in her voice.
So Fred related the facts already familiar to us. Nor did he spare himself in the recital. At its conclusion, there was a moment’s silence. Then——
“Fred,” said the girl softly, “I’m glad you told me of this. Please, Fred, don’t gamble again—whether it be on cards or stocks—and if you were younger—I’d add buttons and marbles.”