Page:Dave Porter at Oak Hall.djvu/53

Rh and Mrs. Wadsworth had tact, and by the time soup was finished all were chatting pleasantly. The gentleman of the house interested the old professor with memories of college days, while Mrs. Wadsworth and Jessie asked Dave about himself and about what he was doing on the farm, and then told something about themselves.

"I don't know that I shall ever care to ride in that automobile," said Jessie; "although papa says he will have it mended so that there will be no further trouble."

"My husband tells me that you would like to obtain a good education," said Mrs. Wadsworth to Dave, after a pause in the conversation. "I think that is the proper ambition for any lad."

"Yes, ma'am, I'd like first-rate to go through college and become something worth while," was the quick reply.

"Mr. Wadsworth will have something to say on that point later on," continued Mrs. Wadsworth.

When dinner was over the lady of the house excused herself for the time being, and withdrew, taking her daughter with her. Mr. Wadsworth led his visitors to the library, where he offered the old professor a cigar and lit one himself.

"Of course you don't smoke," he said to Dave.

"No, sir," was the prompt answer.

"Nor drink?"