"It shall be ready for you, sir, in a jiffy. Will 'am and heggs suit you, sir?"
"Yes, I shall relish them."
"James, take the young gentleman's bag up to No. 5."
"I should like water and towels, as I have had a long and dusty ride."
Fred was ushered into a small bedroom on the second floor, very plainly furnished, but the train boy was not accustomed to luxurious accommodations, and found it satisfactory. He indulged himself in a thorough ablution, then sat down at the window, which was in the front of the house.
Soon there was a knock at the door, and the boy James made his appearance.
"Please, sir, your supper's ready," he said.
"And so am I," returned Fred with alacrity.
He descended to a small dining-room, adjoining the bar. It was not more than twelve feet square, and from its size it might be inferred that the Lion Inn was seldom overrun with guests.
Fred sat down at the table alone, but presently a man of thirty-five or thereabouts entered and took a seat opposite him.