"Sit down to the table, Jedediah," said Mr. Fogson with dignity. "Mr. Bertram desires you to breakfast with him."
Jed was very much surprised, but as he noted the warm biscuit and beefsteak, which emitted an appetizing odor, he felt that it was an invitation not to be rejected.
"I am very much obliged to Mr. Bertram," he said, "and also to you and Mrs. Fogson."
This was a politic remark to make, and he was served as liberally as the guest.
"Do you find your position a pleasant one, Mr. Fogson?" asked Bertram politely.
"No, Mr. Bertram, far from it. The paupers are a thankless, ungrateful set, but I am sustained by a sense of duty."
"The paupers were spoiled by our predecessors, Mr. and Mrs. Avery," chimed in Mrs. Fogson. "Really, Mr. Bertram, you would be surprised to learn how unreasonable they are. They are always complaining of their meals."
"I am sure they must be unreasonable if they complain of meals like this, Mrs. Fogson," said the actor.
"Of course we can't afford to treat them like this. The town would object. But we give them as good fare as we can afford. Are you going to stay long in Scranton?"