“Have you had lunch?”
“No, sir.”
“Then come with me to the Astor House restaurant. There we will talk over your affairs, and perhaps I can suggest something that will be more to your advantage than your present employment.”
“Thank you, sir; I shall feel very grateful for your advice.”
They went to the Astor House, which was very near, and seated themselves at a table. Mr. Vivian ordered a substantial lunch, considerably better than Gilbert could have afforded on his own account. In fact, he had decided to content himself with an apple, and make that do till the six-o’clock dinner at his boarding-house.
CHAPTER XXXII.
A NOVEL PROPOSITION.
A liberal lunch was ordered, and placed before them.
“My time is limited,” said Mr. Vivian, “and we will economize it by discussing lunch and your affairs at the same time. How much do you pay for board?”
“Six dollars a week,” answered Gilbert.
“That is very little,” said the merchant.