CHAPTER III.
PAUL PALMER AT HOME.
In a small two-story house, not far from the junction of a side street with Lake street, lived Mrs. Palmer, Paul's mother.
It was rather shabby-looking externally, being sadly in want of paint, but Mrs. Palmer's rooms on the second floor were neatly, though plainly furnished, and scrupulously clean.
There was an outside staircase, so that the second floor was independent of the first.
Paul ran up stairs, and opened the door, entering at once into the sitting-room, where his mother and sister were seated.
Mrs. Palmer's face brightened at the sight of Paul. He was always full of life and gayety, and his coming never failed to cheer her.
"So you are back again, Paul," she said, smiling a welcome.
"Yes, mother, and I am hungry, I can tell you. Is supper most ready?"