He proposed to enlarge a lower room by a bay-window, and to carry the piazza round on each side. It would cost something, but his income was ample--at least four times his expenditure.
He looked up as a handsomely dressed gentleman entered the room.
"What is your business, sir?" asked Stephen Ray, formally.
The visitor smiled.
"You don't recognize me, Stephen Ray?" he said.
"Benjamin Bolton!" exclaimed the other, his countenance changing.
"The same."
"I judge from your appearance that your circumstances have improved," said Mr. Ray, coldly.
"Fortunately, yes."
"You have probably come to receive my congratulations. Well, I congratulate you."