"Where's the old lady?" asked Travers, with a glance toward the staircase.
"I believe she's gone out, but I'll see."
Brandon went to the foot of the stairs, and called:
"Mrs. B.!"
There was no response.
"Yes, she's gone, and the coast is clear. Where are you staying, Travers?"
"I s'pose I'll have to stay at the hotel, unless you can provide for me here."
"You'd better go to the tavern, for there might be trouble about keepin' you here. Mrs. B. and the boy don't like you."
"I thought you were master of the house," said Travers, with mild sarcasm.
"So I am," answered Brandon, a little embarrassed, "but I don't want to be in hot water all the time."