“It only costs five cents.”
Knowing nothing of the game, Ben accepted this as true, and curiosity led him to accompany his new acquaintance.
“I’ll coach you,” said Grayson.
They made choice of tables and commenced playing. Two other young men, friends of Grayson, joined them.
The game occupied only about ten minutes. Ben succeeded in pocketing one ball, and naturally stood last.
“Well, Ben, you’re beaten!” said Grayson. “The rule is to pay at the end of each game.”
Ben took a nickel from his pocket and handed it to the attendant.
“What’s this for?” he asked.
“My friend told me that the game cost five cents.”
“Yes, five cents a cue.”