"I just took a brief trip across the water," he explained, "and I don't believe in being hampered with baggage."
"Then you were not gone long?" said Scott.
"No; I just ran across in company with an old college friend. He will be absent several months, but I could not spare the time from my business."
"Have you anything which a boy of my age could do in your office?" asked Scott, who felt that he must now be on the search for a place.
"Not at present. My business is of a peculiar nature. I travel for a large house. But I will keep my eyes open, and if I should hear of anything I will most certainly let you know."
"Do you expect anyone to meet you at the pier?"
"No, I never say much about my movements. My friends can wait till I get fairly established in a hotel."
Scott was somewhat amazed when his new acquaintance conducted him to a very plain house on the Bowery.
"I don't care for style," remarked Lane, observing Scott's surprise, "and though I could afford to go to the most expensive hotel in the city, I know that your means are limited, and I wish to select one in which you can afford to remain with me."
"Thank you, Mr. Lane; you are very considerate. I haven't much money, and I must be economical."