"
"You couldn't pay her a higher compliment. But come; we'll take a
walk on the Common."
They were soon on the Common, dear to every Bostonian, and sauntered
along the walks, under the pleasant shade of the stately elms.
"Look there," said Oscar, suddenly; "isn't that Fitz Fletcher?"
"Yes," said Harry, "but he doesn't see us."
"We'll join him. How are you, Fitz?"
"Glad to see you, Oscar," said Fletcher, extending a gloved band,
while in the other he tossed a light cane. "When did you arrive?"
"Only this morning; but you don't see Harry Walton."
Fletcher arched his brows in surprise, and said coldly, "Indeed, I
was not aware Mr. Walton was in the city."
"He is visiting me," said Oscar.
Fletcher looked surprised. He knew the Vincents stood high socially,
and it seemed extraordinary that they should receive a printer's
devil as a guest.
"Have you given up the printing business?" he asked superciliously.
"No; I only have a little vacation from it."
"Ah, indeed! It's a very dirty business. I would as soon be a
chimney-sweep."
"Each to his taste, Fitz," said Oscar. "If you have a taste for
chimneys, I hope your father won't interfere."
"I haven't a taste for such a low business," said Fletcher,
haughtily. "I should like it as well as being a printer's devil
though."
"Would you? At any rate, if you take it up, you'll be sure to be
well _sooted_.
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