Jumping out of the hack, J. Madison Coleman led the way into the
hotel, and, taking pen in hand, recorded his name in large,
flourishing letters--as from New York.
Then he handed the pen to Luke, who registered himself also
from New York.
"Give us a room together," he said to the clerk.
Luke did not altogether like this arrangement, but hardly felt
like objecting. He did not wish to hurt the feelings of J. Madison
Coleman, yet he considered that, having known him only six hours,
it was somewhat imprudent to allow such intimacy. But he who
hesitates is lost, and before Luke had made up his mind whether
to object or not, he was already part way upstairs--there was no
elevator--following the bellboy, who carried his luggage.
The room, which was on the fourth floor, was of good size, and
contained two beds. So far so good. After the ride he wished to wash
and put on clean clothes. Mr. Coleman did not think this necessary,
and saying to Luke that he would find him downstairs, he left our
hero alone.
"I wish I had a room alone," thought Luke. "I should like it much
better, but I don't want to offend Coleman. I've got eighty dollars
in my pocketbook, and though, of course, he is all right, I don't
want to take any risks."
On the door he read the regulations of the hotel. One item attracted
his attention. It was this:
"The proprietors wish distinctly to state that they will not be
responsible for money or valuables unless left with the clerk to
be deposited in the safe.
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