"Yes, when no one is looking. But tell me about your plans. Shall you room in the college buildings?"
"I have come so late in the year that I cannot get any satisfactory rooms."
"Why not try getting a room somewhere in this neighborhood? There are students, I think, who live on this street. I am afraid there are no vacant rooms in this house, or I would introduce you to my landlady."
"I am not sure but I shall. In fact, I have been looking at a room farther up the street this evening."
"Indeed! What house did you find it in?"
"I found two or three houses that had rooms to let for students. They were not boarding-houses. I don't care to board."
"Mr. Wilding, my opinion of you rises with each sentiment you express. First you think of studying English in a scholarly fashion; then you detest boarding. I am sure we shall be friends. I shall invite you to take tea with me,—not to-night, for I have already had my tea, but when you are settled in your room."
"Thank you; I accept with pleasure. I am glad you did not insist on my taking tea with you to-night, for I have just come from tea."
"Oh! I remember you said you had friends in town."
"Yes; I have some cousins of an indefinite degree. They live on this street, and they will make it pleasant for me. But they know very little about the college, and I ventured to call to ask your advice about this matter of a special course. Would you try for a degree?"