The traveller repeated his question in a louder voice.
The old man shook his head.
“I guess you'd better ask that boy,” he said, pointing to Ben, who by this time had nearly come up with the chaise.
“I have had enough of him,” said the traveller, disgusted. “I believe you're all deaf in this town. I'll get out of it as soon as possible.”
He whipped up his horse, somewhat to the old man's surprise, and drove rapidly away.
I desire my young readers to understand that I am describing Ben as he was, and not as he ought to be. There is no doubt that he carried his love of fun too far. We will hope that as he grows older, he will grow wiser.
Ben pursued the remainder of his way to the Post-office without any further adventure.
Entering a small building appropriated to this purpose, he inquired for letters.
“There's nothing for your father to-day,” said the post-master.
“Perhaps there's something for me,—Benjamin Newcome, Esq.,” said Ben.