"I can only say that I accept your offer with gratitude, Mr. Marden."
"That's all right. You may consider me your guardian for the time being."
Twenty minutes more brought them to the Chicago station.
The hackmen were on hand with their offers of transportation, but the miner declined.
"I want to unfold myself," he said, "and I reckon I'll walk. My bag isn't heavy, for I don't carry round a dress suit. I suppose you're able to walk, Robert?"
So, unheeding the hackmen, they started for the Palmer House, which was less than half a mile distant. When Robert came in sight of the hotel, he was impressed by the large size and handsome appearance of the structure.
"I shouldn't dare to put up at such a hotel if I were alone," he said with a smile.
"No, I reckon not. As it is, you are all right. Let us go in."
"I want a room with two beds," said the miner, after registering his name.
"Take this gentleman and his son to 297."
The bell-boy took their bags and preceded them to the elevator.
"Did you hear what the clerk said, Robert? He called you my son."
"I haven't chick nor child, and have no right to have, as I never married, but if I did have a son, you would suit me as well as any boy I know."
"Thank you, Mr. Marden; I consider that a compliment."
"I mean it. Now let us see what sort of a room has been assigned to us."
It proved to be a very good room, moderately spacious, with two beds, one on each side of the apartment.
"I think we'll be comfortable here, Robert," said his new friend.
"I feel sure of it," replied the boy, looking about him with an air of satisfaction.
"You can have that bed and I'll take the other. Now, do you feel hungry?"
"I think I could eat something, Mr. Marden."
"Don't call me Mr. Marden. I'm not used to it."
"If you wish me to, though I am afraid it is hardly respectful, considering how much older you are than I am."
"Oh, hang respect! That won't bother me any. Take a wash, if you want to, and we'll go down to the dining-room."
Robert was glad to do so, as he felt heated and dusty. Mr. Marden followed his example.
They went down to the dining-room, and both did justice to the excellent meal provided.
They had just commenced on the dessert when a small man with a slight hump entered the dining-room, and took a seat opposite. He glanced across the table.