Another thing puzzled him. He was ostensibly Major Grafton's private secretary, and as such was paid a liberal salary, but thus far he had not been called upon to render any service. There was nothing in this to complain of, to be sure. If Major Grafton chose to pay him for doing nothing, that was his lookout. Meanwhile he would be able to save up at least half of his salary, and transmit it to his mother.
When they were fairly installed in their new home Major Grafton said:
"I have a call to make, and shall be absent till late. I suppose you can take care of yourself?"
"Oh, yes, sir. If there is anything you wish me to do——"
"Not this evening. I have not got my affairs settled yet. That is all the better for you, as you can spend your time as you choose."
About an hour later, as Ben was in the billiard-room, looking with interest at a game, his cousin, Clarence Plantagenet, and Percy Van Dyke entered.
"How are you?" said Clarence, graciously. "Percy, this is my cousin, Ben Baker."
"Glad to see you, I'm sure," said Percy.
"Won't you join us in a little game?"