"I have no carriage, or I should drive here."

"But it is pleasant to walk."

"Yes, if you have a companion. Most of my friends are men of business, and have no time to spare for park rambles."

"Mr. Wood, I wish you were in business, and I were in your employ," said Scott, impulsively.

"Thank you, Scott. I do think we should get along well. So you think you would like me better than your new-found relatives?"

"Oh, ever so much!"

"Then I will try to foster the illusion," said the young man, smiling. "Suppose I adopt you as a cousin?"

"I wish you would."

"Very well! Then we will look upon each other in that light."

"Do you live in the city, Mr. Wood?"