When the concert was over, and while he was slowly passing out with the crowd, some one at his side suddenly exclaimed:
“Halloa, Meredith! where on earth did you come from?” and a friendly hand grasped and shook his with a vigorous cordiality.
“Alden! is it you?” he cried, in return. “I might ask the same question of you, since I had not a thought of seeing you here; but since it is evident that we are both Americans, it is safe to assume that we came from ‘over the seas and far away.’”
“When did you arrive? Where are you stopping, and how long do you stay in London?” demanded Alden, his tongue going like a race-horse.
“Well,” Ralph returned, laughing, “you mean to know all about me, I see. I arrived a week ago yesterday; I am stopping at the Midland Grand, and my stay is—indefinite.”
“Good! but now I have found you, I mean to keep an eye upon you. I tell you it sets a fellow up wonderfully to see a home-face. Have you any other engagement for this evening?”
“No.”
“Then come with me. I have an invitation to Lady Stamfield’s reception—and, by the by, she does entertain charmingly—with permission to bring as many friends as I choose. Come; my lady is a delightful hostess, besides having two of the loveliest daughters in the world.”
“Such an inducement as the latter I am unable to resist,” Ralph responded, with a smile. “I will come with pleasure.”
“You’re a sensible fellow,” replied young Alden, as, linking his arm familiarly in that of his friend, he led him away.