"This is the way I like to live," he thought, as he looked around him. "Instead of the miserable lodging, where I am cooped up, I would like to live in a hotel like this, or at least, in a handsome boarding-house, and fare like a gentleman."
While he was thinking thus, his attention was drawn to a conversation which he heard beside him. The speakers were apparently two business men.
"What do you think of Morton's business position?"
"What Morton do you mean?"
"Paul Morton."
"If you want my real opinion, I think he is in a critical condition."
"Is it as bad as that?"
"Yes, I have reason to think so. I don't believe he will keep his head above water long unless he receives some outside assistance."
"I have heard that whispered by others."