"No, it's under the wharf,—a bully place."
"Under the wharf! It's wet, isn't it?"
"No, you just come along. I'll show you."
Having no other place to suggest, Ben accepted his companion's guidance, and the two made their way by the shortest route to the wharf named. It is situated not far from Fulton Ferry on the east side. It may be called a double wharf. As originally built, it was found too low for the class of vessels that used it, and another flooring was built over the first, leaving a considerable space between the two. Its capabilities for a private rendezvous occurred to a few boys, who forthwith proceeded to avail themselves of it. It was necessary to carry on their proceedings secretly; otherwise there was danger of interference from the city police. What steps they took to make their quarters comfortable will shortly be described.
When they reached the wharf, Barney looked about him with an air of caution, which Ben observed.
"What are you scared of?" asked Ben.
"We mustn't let the 'copp' see us," said Barney, "Don't make no noise."
Thus admonished, Ben followed his companion with as little noise as possible.
"How do you get down there?" he asked.
"I'll show you," said Barney.