Gilbert had nowhere to go; but the city was a novelty, and he wandered about the streets, looking about him with the keen interest of a country visitor.
A short walk brought him to the Fifth Avenue Hotel. He had heard of it often, but never seen the interior. Attracted by curiosity he went in. He took a seat near the door, and idly watched the people who were continually going out and coming in. Among the latter he soon saw a familiar face. Randolph Briggs lounged in, swinging a light cane.
“Hallo!” he said, noticing Gilbert, “you here!”
“So it seems,” said Gilbert.
“You aint going to stop here, are you?”
“For the present, I am staying at your house.”
“Oh, yes, I forgot. Been up there?”
“Yes.”
“Did you see mother?”
“For a few minutes.”