John Meadows was a Bowery boy, and better adapted for the store he was in than for one in a more fashionable thoroughfare.
"The boss wants me to entertain you," he remarked, when they were alone. "How shall I do it?"
"Don't trouble yourself," said Oliver, smiling.
"I'd offer you a cigarette, only the boss don't allow smoking in the store."
"I don't smoke," said Oliver.
"You don't! Where was you brung up?" asked John.
"In the country."
"Oh, that accounts for it. Mean ter say you've never puffed a weed?"
"I never have."
"Then you don't know what 'tis to enjoy yourself. Who's that man you came in with?"