Joshua made no further objections, but left the house in company with Mr. Remington, who took his arm, and talked socially, like an old friend. Joshua was more and more charmed with him.
After a five minutes’ walk they reached the billiard hall. It was a large room, containing twelve tables.
“I think we will try a pocket-table. It is easier for a beginner. Select a cue, Mr. Drummond.”
Joshua didn’t know what a cue was, but, following his companion’s example, selected one from a rack against the wall.
“Now,” said Mr. Remington, after the balls were placed, “the principle of the game is very simple. With this ball, you must try to hit two others. If you succeed in doing it, you count three, or if you succeed in sending either ball into any one of the four pockets, you count three. If you do both, it counts you six. One hundred is the game. I will take the first shot, which is difficult for a beginner, and then you take your turn.”
He made the shot, but without counting. Next Joshua, under his direction, made a shot, and by what billiard-players call a “scratch,” hit two balls, sending one into a pocket.
“Bravo! good shot! You have played before, haven’t you, Mr. Drummond?”
“I never saw a billiard table before,” said Joshua, elated. “Now it is your turn.”
“No, since you succeeded, you are to keep on. I foresee that you will make an excellent player.”
“It’s a first-rate game,” said Joshua.