"I hope you will not be disappointed in the Ottawa House,"
observed Mr. Coleman, as they rattled through the paved streets.
"It isn't a stylish hotel."
"I am not used to stylish living," said Luke, frankly. "I have
always been used to living in a very plain way."
"When I first went on the road I used to stop at the tip-top
houses, such as the Palmer at Chicago, the Russell House in
Detroit, etc., but it's useless extravagance. Claflin allows me
a generous sum for hotels, and if I go to a cheap one, I put the
difference into my own pocket."
"Is that expected?" asked Luke, doubtfully.
"It's allowed, at any rate. No one can complain if I choose to
live a little plainer. When it pays in the way of business to stop
at a big hotel, I do so. Of course, your boss pays your expenses?"
"Yes."
"Then you'd better do as I do--put the difference in your
own pocket."
"I shouldn't like to do that."
"Why not? It is evident you are a new traveler, or you would
know that it is a regular thing."
Luke did not answer, but he adhered to his own view. He meant
to keep a careful account of his disbursements and report to
Mr.
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