"Certainly, sir. I should like the lad to occupy a stateroom near mine."
"Very well. I will show you on the plan those that are unengaged. I cannot give either of you a stateroom to yourselves. I can give you a room with a very agreeable lady, a Mrs. Dunbar, and the boy can occupy part of the adjoining room."
"Very well, sir."
"What name?" continued the agent.
"Ida Sinclair," answered the young lady, with visible hesitation.
"And the boy's name?"
Miss Sinclair had forgotten; but Ben promptly answered for himself.
The young lady drew out her pocketbook, and produced several large bills, out of which she paid the passage money. Then, turning to Ben, she said: "Now we will go."
Ben followed her out of the office, feeling completely bewildered. Well he might. The young lady had paid two hundred and fifty dollars for his passage, and for this large outlay only required him to take care of her. No wonder he thought it strange.
"You say you are not staying at any hotel?" said the young lady, as they emerged into the street.