As they rose from the table, Mrs. Colman asked Miss Manning, "Is that the brother of your little girl?"
"Yes," answered Miss Manning.
"He has a very good appearance; I should like to have you bring him into our room a while."
Miss Manning communicated this invitation to Rufus. He would have excused himself gladly, but he felt that this would have been hardly polite; therefore he accepted it.
"I am glad to make your acquaintance, Mr. Rushton," said Mrs. Colman.
"Thank you," said Rufus.
"I hear that you have come to board with us."
"Yes," he answered, wishing that he might think of something more to say, but not succeeding.
"It is a pleasant boarding-place; I hope you will like it."
"I think I shall."