I am going into the smoking car to smoke a cigar.

Ben, I will be back soon." "I didn't expect to meet you so far from Pentonville," said Ben's new companion, unable to suppress his curiosity.
"I don't live in Pentonville now." "Where then ?" "In the city of New York." "Are you employed there ?" "Yes; but I am just returning from a trip to Western Pennsylvania." "Did you go on business ?" "Yes." "Well, you are getting on, for a country boy.

What do you hear from home ?" "My mother is well, but I fancy that is not what you mean." "Yes, I am interested about your mother.

Has she yet paid off that mortgage on her cottage ?" "How did you know there was a mortgage," asked Ben, in surprise.
"I know more than you suppose.

What are the chances that she will be able to pay ?" "They are very small," answered Ben, gravely, "but the money is not yet due." "When will it be due ?" "In about six weeks." "Squire Davenport will foreclose--I know him well enough for that." "So I suppose," said Ben, soberly.
"Is there no friend who will oblige you with the money ?" "I don't know of anyone I should feel at liberty to call on." It came into his mind that Mrs.Hamilton was abundantly able to help them, but she did not know his mother, and it would savor of presumption for him to ask so great a favor.