"At what time shall I meet you, sir?"
"At eleven o'clock, here."
"Yes, sir," answered Jed, wondering what he was to do during the intervening time.
As he had no money, he must defer eating till then, and it occurred to him that he would hardly feel able to row any considerable distance unless refreshed by food. Could he venture to ask a part of the sum he was to earn in advance? He decided to do so.
"I am going to ask a favor," he said hurriedly. "I have been robbed of all my money, and I have not enough to buy my supper. If you let me have half a dollar on account——"
He feared that this proposal would be distasteful to his companion, but the sallow-faced man did not seem offended.
"Perhaps," he said thoughtfully, "I had better keep you with me, and let you eat supper with me."
"Very well, sir," said Jed, feeling relieved.
The other looked relieved.