CHAPTER VIII.
BEN ARRIVES IN BOSTON.
Jacob Winter came bounding down-stairs angry and bewildered. He sought out his wife in the kitchen.
“What has become of Ben?” he demanded abruptly.
Mrs. Winter turned and surveyed her husband calmly.
“Why do you ask?” she inquired.
“Because I went up to call him just now and found that his bed had not been slept in. Do you think he went over to sleep with Albert Graham?”
“He said nothing to me about going.”
“If he went without leave I will give him a sound thrashing.”
“Threats are cheap, Mr. Winter,” said his wife with something of contempt in her voice.
“What do you think has become of the boy, Mrs. W.?”