"We met with an accident, Bridget," explained the young man, "or rather I tumbled into the water and this boy jumped after me."
"Faith you look like it, Mr. Mordaunt," said Bridget. "Will I tell Mrs. White?"
"Yes. Ask her if she can send us up some hot coffee in about twenty minutes. I am afraid, if we don't have some hot drink, we will take cold."
"All right, sir."
A hasty glance satisfied Tom that it was a first-class boarding-house. The hall was handsomely furnished, and when, on reaching the head of the stairs, his companion led the way into a spacious room, with a chamber connecting, our young hero saw a rich carpet, elegant furniture, a handsome collection of books, and some tasteful pictures upon the walls. It was evident that Mr. Mordaunt was possessed of ample means.
"Now—by the way, I've forgotten your name, yet——"
"Gilbert Grey. Some call me Tom, for short."
"Now, Gilbert, make yourself at home. The best thing we can do is to strip at once, and put on dry clothes."
He went to a wardrobe and brought out two suits of clothes, also a supply of under-clothing.
"There," said he, "go ahead and change your clothes."