"Haven't such an article," said Jasper.
"I forgot you don't smoke," said Pickering with a sigh. "Dear me! how will you bear trouble when it comes, old chap?" He came back to the table, and thrust his hands in his pockets, looking dismally at Jasper.
"I'm afraid a cigar wouldn't help me much," said Jasper, with a laugh; "but if you must have one, I can get it, eh?"
"Yes, I must," said Pickering in despair, "for I've something on my mind. Came over on purpose to get your help, and I can't do it without a weed."
"Very well," said Jasper, shoving the chair again toward Pickering. "Sit down, and I'll have one sent up," and he went over and touched the electric button on the wall.
"Yes, sir?" Buttons ran his head in the doorway, and stared at them without winking.
"A cigar for this gentleman," said Jasper, filliping a coin into the boy's hand.
"Is that the way you order cigars?" demanded Pickering, whirling around in his chair.
"Yes, when I order them at all," said Jasper, laughing; "a weed is a weed, I suppose."
"Indeed, and it is not, then," retorted Pickering. "I'll have none of your ordering. You needn't bring it up, boy; I'll go down to the office and pick some out for myself."