This Tom did. Jennie listened with indignation.
"But I don't understand," she said. "Why should the son of a merchant need to rob a boy like you? He looks as if he had plenty of money."
"So I thought; but the hotel clerk told me that sharpers often appeared like this Mr. Graham, if that is his name."
"How strange it seems!" said Jennie. "I wish you hadn't introduced me."
"I didn't want to; but he asked, and at the table I couldn't give my reasons for refusing."
"My dear child," said her mother, "you are too ready to form new acquaintances. Let this be a lesson for you."
"But some new acquaintances are nice," pleaded Jennie. "Isn't Tom a new acquaintance?"
"I will make an exception in his favor," said Mrs. Watson, smiling pleasantly.
"Thank you," said Tom. "How do you know but I may be a pickpocket?" he continued, addressing Jennie.
"As I have only ten cents in my pocket I will trust you," said the young lady merrily. "I'd trust you with any amount, Tom," she added impulsively.