door, and said:

"All ready, kid? Mr. Perkins has sent for you."

Going out into the car, Bob saw a negro clad in a suit of immaculate
linen.

"Is you Mr. Chester?" asked the darky, restraining the smile Bob's
appearance produced.

"My name's Bob Chester, if that's what you mean," returned the boy.

"Then you'se to come with me to the dining-car, where Mr. Perkins is
waiting for you."

Without more delay, the negro led the way.

Unmindful of the glances indicative of curiosity that were cast at him,
Bob followed his guide into the dining-car.

As the railroad president saw his youthful guest approach, he arose, and
with punctilious ceremony shook Bob's hand, murmuring:

"I hope you slept well, Bob?"

"Very, thank you. I don't think I should have been awake now, if the
brakeman hadn't called me. He was very kind to me."

"I'm glad of that," smiled the official. "What would you like to eat?"