"I am not so very late, Tony," answered Ben, taking the little fellow's hand.
"Yes you are; it's half-past five o'clock, and supper's been ready quarter of an hour."
"I see how it is, Tony. You are hungry, and that has made you tired of waiting."
"No, I am not, but I wanted you to come home. It's always pleasanter when you are at home."
"I am glad you like my company. Good evening, Aunt Jane."
"Good evening, Ben. Sit right down at the table."
"Wait till I've washed my hands, aunt. I came home by Mr. Watson's, and that made me a little longer. Have you heard any news?"
Ben asked this, thinking it possible that his aunt had already heard of the discharge of some of the factory hands; but her answer satisfied him that she had not.
"Butter's a cent higher a pound," said Mrs. Bradford. "I declare, things seem to be going up all the time. Thirsty-five cents a pound! It really seems sinful to ask such a price."
"I wish that wasn't the worst of it," thought Ben.