Part 40 (2/2)

In this conjecture, as we know, Fairfax was mistaken. However, it made comparatively little difference to him whose money it was, as long as there was a chance of his getting it into his possession. The fact was, that his finances were not in a very flouris.h.i.+ng condition just at present. He could have done better to follow some honest and respectable business, and avoid all the dishonest s.h.i.+fts and infractions of law to which he was compelled to resort, but he had started wrong, and it was difficult to persuade him that even now it would have been much better for him to amend his life and ways. In this state of affairs he thought it a great piece of good luck that he should have fallen in with a boy in charge of a large sum of money, whom, from his youth and inexperience, he would have less trouble in robbing than an older person.

Andy had already decided how he would spend the afternoon. He had heard a good deal about the Boston Museum, its large collection of curiosities, and the plays that were performed there. One of the pleasantest antic.i.p.ations he had was of a visit to this place, the paradise of country people. Now that his business was concluded, he determined to go there at once. But first he must inquire the way.

Turning around, he saw Fairfax without recognizing him.

”Can you direct me to the Boston Museum?” he asked.

”Certainly, with pleasure,” said Fairfax, with alacrity. ”In fact, I am going there myself. I suppose you are going to the afternoon performance?”

”Yes, sir.”

”Have you ever been there?”

”No; but I have heard a good deal about it. I don't live in the city.”

”Nor do I,” said Fairfax. ”I am a merchant of Portland, Maine. I have come to the city to buy my winter stock of goods. As I only come twice a year, I generally try to enjoy myself a little while I am here. Do you stay in the city overnight?”

”Yes,” said Andy.

”So do I. Here is the Museum.”

They had reached the Museum, which, as some of my readers are aware, is situated in Tremont Street.

”We go up these stairs,” said Fairfax. ”If you don't object, we will take seats together.”

”I shall be glad to have company,” said Andy, politely.

Reserved seats adjoining were furnished, and the adventurer and his intended victim entered the Museum.

CHAPTER XXVI SPINNING THE WEB

There was a short interval before the play commenced. This Andy improved by examining the large stock of curiosities which have been gathered from all parts of the world for the gratification of visitors. Fairfax kept at his side, and spoke freely of all they saw.

There was something about him which seemed to Andy strangely familiar.

Was it in his features, or in his voice? He could not tell. The red whig and whiskers misled him. Andy finally set it down as a mere chance resemblance to someone whom he had met formerly, and dismissed it from his mind.

At length the increasing crowds pouring into the lecture-room reminded them that the play was about to begin.

”Shall we go in and take our seats?” said Fairfax.

Andy a.s.sented, and they were speedily in their seats.

I do not propose to speak of the play. It was a novelty to Andy to see a dramatic representation, and he thoroughly enjoyed it. Fairfax was more accustomed to such things, but pretended to be equally interested, feeling that in this way he could ingratiate himself better into Andy's confidence.

At last it was over, and they went out of the building.

<script>