“I am going to California for my health,” said Tom’s companion. “My doctor tells me that there is some hope that it may benefit me. Had I stayed at home, he said he would not insure me twelve months more of life.”
“Did you come alone, sir?”
“Yes. I am nearly alone in the world. I have neither wife nor child.”
There was a sadness in his voice as he said this, and Tom felt pity for his desolate condition.
“I think I will sit down now,” he said, after walking half an hour. “I feel much better for the exercise. It is the first I have enjoyed since we left the great metropolis of the East.”
“Let me know when you want to walk again, sir,” said Tom. “I shall be glad to walk with you.”
“You are very kind, my young friend. May I know to whom I am indebted?”
“My name is Thomas Temple. Everybody calls me Tom.”
“Let me give you my card. It may happen that I can at some time be of service to you. If so, be sure to communicate with me.”
“Thank you, sir.”