“He writes novelettes for the Weekly Bugle.”
“I am afraid I am not familiar with the authors who write for that publication. What is your friend’s best known story?”
“I think he prides himself most on ‘The Ragpicker’s Curse.’”
Mr. Wilkins smiled.
“I suppose it is hardly in the style of Howells,” he said.
“No; Mr. Snodgrass is confident that Howells could not write such a story.”
“I have no doubt he is correct. But there is the supper bell. Let us go down.”
A neatly-dressed old lady was already seated behind the tea-urn.
“Mother,” said Mr. Wilkins, “let me introduce my young friend, Benjamin Bruce.”
“I am glad to see thee, Benjamin,” said Mrs. Wilkinson, with a kindly smile.