“Yes, but the berths are exposed to draughts and are not as desirable as staterooms.”
Robert did not know that, so far from this being the case, the great fault of the ordinary berths was a lack of air.
“I suppose your stateroom contains two berths?” said the stranger.
“Yes, I believe so.”
“I may be taking a liberty, but I have a proposal to make. If you will allow me to occupy one of them I will pay half the cost of your room. It would oblige me very much, but I would not ask if I were not sick.”
Robert did not entirely like this proposal. He preferred to be alone. Still he was naturally obliging, and he hardly knew how to refuse this favor to a sick man.
“I see you hesitate,” said the stranger. “Pray think no more of my request. I would not mind paying the entire cost of the room, if you will take me in. It cost you a dollar, did it not?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Then,” said the man, drawing a dollar bill from his pocketbook, “allow me to pay for it and share it with you.”
“I ought not to be selfish,” thought Robert. “I would rather be alone, but if this man is sick I think I will let him come in with me.”