“I expect to take them back with me.”
“You have indeed been fortunate. How did you succeed?”
“I would tell you, but I am not at liberty, as it would involve another’s secret.”
“At all events, Tom, you have shown yourself a man of judgment. You have succeeded where many a man would have failed.”
“Perhaps I have,” said Tom; “and perhaps the fact of my being a boy has been in my favor. I can see myself how it has helped me.”
“Where are you stopping, Tom?”
“At the California Hotel.”
“That is expensive. You may stay with me, and welcome.”
“Thank you, Mr. Burton,” said Tom warmly. “I will accept your kind invitation, partly because I really cannot afford to stay at an expensive hotel, partly because I prefer the privacy of a house to a hotel.”
“All right. Settle your bill at the hotel, and come at once.”