"What are you up to, King?" he asked.
"Looking for a job."
"You are my man, then. I am keeping a cigar store at the Prairie Hotel, but I have some business calling me away from the city for six weeks or two months. Will you take my place?"
"What are the inducements?"
"Board and lodging and five dollars a week."
"Agreed."
"Come over, then, and I will show you the place."
The hotel was a cheap one, not far from the railway station, and though comfortable, was not patronized by fastidious travelers.
"When do you want me to take hold?" he asked.
"To-morrow."