"It seems very strange that Mr. Bowen should invite a newsboy to dinner."
"Perhaps if you'd mention what you think of it," said Frank, somewhat nettled, "he would recall the invitation."
"Oh, it's nothing to me," said Victor; "but I thought I'd mention it, as I know more of etiquette than you do."
"You are very considerate," said Frank, with a slight tinge of sarcasm in his tone.
By this time he had reached the house of Mr. Bowen, and the two boys parted.
Frank could not help thinking a little about what Victor had said. His suit, as he looked down at it, seemed shabbier than ever. Again it occurred to him that perhaps Mr. Bowen had forgotten the invitation, and this would make it very awkward for him. As he waited for the door to open he decided that, if it should appear that he was not expected, he would give some excuse, and go away.
Susan opened the door.
"Mr. Bowen invited me to come here to dinner to-night," began Frank, rather nervously.
"Yes, you are expected," said Susan, very much to his relief. "Wipe your feet, and come right in."
Frank obeyed.