AT THE THEATER After dinner, Ben and Conrad started to walk to the theater.

The distance was about a mile, but in the city there is so much always to be seen that one does not think of distance.
Conrad, who was very curious to ascertain Ben's status in the household, lost no time in making inquiries.
"What does my aunt find for you to do ?" he asked.
It may be remarked, by the way, that no such relationship ever existed between them, but Mrs.Hill and her son thought politic to make the relationship seem as close as possible, as it would, perhaps, increase their apparent claim upon their rich relative.
Ben answered the question.
"You'll have a stupid time," said Conrad.

"All the same, she ought to have given the place to me.

How much does she pay you ?" Ben hesitated, for he knew that his answer would make his companion discontented.
"I am not sure whether I am at liberty to tell," he answered, with hesitation.
"There isn't any secret about it, is there ?" said Conrad sharply.
No, I suppose not.

I am to receive ten dollars a week." "Ten dollars a week!" ejaculated Conrad, stopping short in the street.
"Yes." "And I get but four! That's a shame!" "I shall really have no more than you, Conrad.