CHAPTER III
UNDER AN ASSUMED NAME.
At length the stage reached its destination. With a flourish the driver drew up in front of the Portville House, a hotel of moderate size, yet large enough to accommodate all the travelers likely to stand in need of shelter.
Walter got out, and taking his carpetbag, which was handed down from the roof, where it had been stored with other parcels, entered the inn. General Wall and his son retained their places, and the driver, after a short pause, set out to leave them at their own house.
Walter entered the barroom, which was at the same time the office, and asked if he could be accommodated with a room.
“You can have your choice of half a dozen,” said the landlord. “We ain’t crowded just at present.”
“Put me in any. I am not particular as long as it’s comfortable.”
“Will you go up now?”
“Yes, I think so. How soon will supper be ready?”
“In half an hour.”
“Very well, I’ll be down.”