"I am in a store," said Pliny.
"In your father's store?"
"No. He wouldn't pay me as much as I get where I am."
Mr. Tarbox looked embarrassed.
"A smaller boy answered my purpose," he said, in an explanatory manner. "Pliny is suited for higher duties. But our supper is ready. It is frugal compared with yours at the Cedars, my dear Frank, but you are heartily welcome to it."
"It looks very nice, Mr. Tarbox," said our hero, "and I have not been accustomed to luxurious living."
This answer pleased Mr. and Mrs. Tarbox. Even if Frank should become a boarder on liberal terms, they didn't wish to spend too much on their table.
"We couldn't get sirloin steak," said Mr. Tarbox; "but I hope you will find this good."
"No doubt I shall," said Frank, politely.
"Won't you have another piece of steak?" asked Mrs. Tarbox.