The servant promptly reported the arrival to Mr. Wainwright, who descended the staircase quickly and greeted his uncle.
"You are heartily welcome, Uncle Silas," he said. "I did not expect you till to-morrow, or I would have sent the carriage for you."
"I changed my mind, John, and decided to push through."
"Who is this young man with you?"
"He is a kind friend, John. I was taken sick—the effect of the journey, I think—and I shouldn't have been able to get up here but for him."
The broker smiled pleasantly and held out his hand to Fred.
"You are the train boy, are you not?" he asked, glancing at Fred's cap.
"Yes, sir."
"I hope you find it pays you well."
"Not at this season, sir."