The door was opened by a well-dressed serving-man, who greeted them with a smile, and relieved them of any embarrassment by saying, “Please follow me. You are expected.”
He led the way up-stairs to a handsome apartment, which appeared to be fitted up as a sitting-room and library.
“Be seated, please.”
They sat down and had begun to examine some of the books on the table, when an attractive lady entered the room, leading by the hand little Paul.
“Which of you boys saved the life of my little boy?” she asked with emotion.
“My cousin Ben,” answered Adelbert.
She grasped Ben’s hand warmly, saying, “I shall never forget the service you have done me, my brave boy.”
Ben blushed and felt uncomfortable, for he was modest and did not think he deserved such a warm tribute.
“Won’t you come and sit by me, Paul?” he asked, for he was fond of little boys.
Paul went up at once and sat beside him on the sofa.