“We must have something to drink with these,” said the purser, and he pressed the button again.
Roy looked at him inquiringly.
“I never touch anything stronger than coffee,” said the purser, “and if you take my advice, you won’t, either.”
“I never touched a drop of liquor in my life,” said Roy, “and I’m not going to now.”
“I thought not,” said the purser. “That’s one reason I mean to be your friend. Boys who drink aren’t worth bothering with.”
Presently Sam answered the bell and brought them a pot of steaming hot coffee. For a long time Roy and the purser sat talking; they ate crullers and drank coffee. When Mr. Robbins said good-night, Roy was very happy indeed. He felt that he had gained a real friend, who would help him in difficulty. And, though he did not know it, there were many difficulties ahead of him.