"I have just finished my errand, and thought I'd take a walk to see
the sights," he returned. "How is it you are not at the theater?"
"As I said, I didn't care to go alone, so took your advice and sold
the extra ticket, and also my own. I'll take a walk along with you if
you don't mind."
Richard was not overpleased at the proposition; yet he could not very
well object except by seeming rude, and from this he shrank; so he
gave a mild assent.
"You see I like to get on good terms with all the boys," explained
Norris, as they walked leisurely along. "I'm on the best of terms with
every one in the establishment but Massanet, and I'd like to be with
him, only he's so awfully slow."
"Frank Massanet is a very nice fellow," said Richard stoutly.
"Oh, yes--too nice for me, though. But let that pass. Everybody has
his peculiarities. Have a smoke?"
And Norris pulled two strong-looking cigars from his vest pocket.
"I'm much obliged," replied the boy. "I don't smoke."
"Try one. They are fine," went on the shipping-clerk, stopping to get
a light. "No time like the present for making a beginning. I'm quite
sure it won't make you sick."
"I don't think I care to try," was all Richard could say; and he
heartily wished Earle Norris would go his own way.
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