“This is Thomas Stanton, your fellow-clerk,” said Mr. Pratt, the bookkeeper. “I believe you have not been introduced.”
“Now for it,” thought Tom.
But rather to his surprise, Herbert made no demonstration, but merely bowed slightly.
“What does it mean?” thought Tom, a little perplexed. “Is it possible that he is not my cousin, after all?”
“I think you came from Ohio?” inquired Tom, impelled by his curiosity to ask the question.
“Yes,” said Herbert.
“Why didn't you stay there? Couldn't you make a living there?” asked Tom, not over-politely.
“Probably I might,” said Herbert, quietly.
“Then I think you should have stayed there.”
“Which do you like best, the city or the country?” asked our hero.