Grant was not sorry to have Tom leave him. He didn't enjoy his company, and besides he foresaw that it would be rather embarrassing if Tom should take a fancy to remain with him in the city. He didn't care to have anyone, certainly not Tom, learn on what errand he had come to the city.
Two minutes had scarcely elapsed after Tom vacated his seat, when a pleasant-looking gentleman of middle age, who had been sitting just behind them, rose and took the seat beside Grant.
“I will sit with you if you don't object,” said he.
“I should be glad of your company,” said Grant, politely.
“You live in the country, I infer?”
“Yes, sir.”
“I overheard your conversation with the young man who has just left you. I suspect you are not very much alike.”
“I hope not, sir. Perhaps Tom would say the same, for he thinks me green.”
“There is such a thing as knowing too much—that isn't desirable to know. So you don't smoke?”
“No, sir.”