"Yes," answered Frank. "Our business is pretty good just now. How is your son?"
"He slept well, and woke much refreshed this morning. He is a good boy naturally, but unable to withstand temptation. I have decided to send him to the country for a few weeks, to visit a cousin of about his own age. There he will be secure from temptation, and will have a chance to ride. I would have sent him away before, but that it would leave me alone in the house. You told me last evening that you had no boarding-place."
"My only home is at the lodging-house," said Frank.
"How would you like to occupy a room at my house while my son is away?"
"Very much," said Frank, promptly.
"I shall find it convenient to have you in the house, and shall feel safer."
"I am afraid I shouldn't be a match for an able-bodied burglar," said Frank, smiling.
"Perhaps not; but you could summon a policeman. When can you come and see me about this arrangement?"
"I am off duty to-night."
"Very well; I will expect you. Fred will not go away till to-morrow, and you will have a chance to see him under more favorable circumstances than last evening."