"I have never thought of doing so. I am afraid I could not replace it with any other that would be satisfactory."
"I don't blame you, of course, but it occurred to me that, having a considerable amount, you might be willing to sell."
"I generally hold on to good stock when I get possession of it. Indeed, I would buy more, if there were any in the market."
"He must have surplus funds," thought the adventurer. "I must see if I can't manage to get some into my possession."
Here the landlord appeared, and announced that dinner was ready.
"You dine here, then?" said Fairfax.
"Yes; it will take me two hours to reach home, so I am obliged to dine here."
"We shall dine together, it seems. I am glad of it, as at present I happen to be the only permanent guest at the hotel. May I ask where you live?"
"In Crampton."
"I have heard favorably of it, and have been intending to come over and see the place, but the fact is, I am used only to the city, and your country roads are so blind, that I have been afraid of losing my way."