Page:Dave Porter at Oak Hall.djvu/69



had brought with him a magazine to read, but for the present he preferred to look out of the wide-open window at the scenery as it appeared to rush past. Crumville was soon lost in the distance, and they crossed the river running to the Sound, and then began to climb a long hill dotted with farms in a high state of cultivation. Next came a wood, and beyond this was a small town where the train made its next stop.

The seat across the aisle from the youth was vacant, and presently this was taken by a sleek-looking individual dressed in a suit of gray and wearing a mourning band on his derby hat. The stranger carried a good-sized valise, which he stowed on the seat beside him with care.

"Rather warm," he remarked, looking at the boy with a smile on his shrewd face.

"It is," returned Dave, politely. For some reason he did not fancy the appearance of the newcomer.

"It's hot work carrying a heavy valise," went Rh