"Good-morning, young man," he said.
"Good-morning," returned Bert, eyeing the stranger with some curiosity.
"You must excuse the liberty I have taken in addressing you, but if you will favor me with a few minutes' conversation, I think I can make it worth your while."
"Very well. I am ready to hear what you have to say."
"By the way, are you staying at a hotel?"
"No; I am boarding on Monroe Street."
"Is it a good boarding-house?"
"Excellent."
"I am looking for one, and if you will allow me, I will walk round with you, and see what it is like."
Bert knew that Mrs. Shelby had a room which she was anxious to let, and he readily agreed to introduce the stranger.