"I see you don't understand me," said the gentlemen of clerical appearance. "I am a phrenologist." "Oh, yes, I understand," said Ben. "I lecture on phrenology and examine heads, describing the character and prominent traits of my subjects on phrenological principles. For instance, I can readily tell by the help of my science your leading tendencies, and in what career you would be most likely to meet with success." "I would like to know that myself," said Ben, becoming interested. "My terms for an ordinary examination are twenty-five cents. For a written description I charge a dollar." "If I had plenty of money," said Ben, "I wouldn't mind getting a written description." "A dollar spent that way may save you hundreds of dollars, nay, perhaps thousands," said the phrenologist insinuatingly. Ben shook his head. "I haven't any money to spare," he said. "I have some money, but it was given to me to pay traveling expenses." "Surely you can spare twenty-five cents," said the phrenologist. "You can remember what I say and write it down yourself afterward." "So, I can," said Ben. "I guess I can afford a quarter; but where can we go?" "Stay here," said Prof. Crane, for this was his self-chosen designation. "It will probably bring me other customers." "I don't know," said Ben, looking about him doubtfully. "I don't think I should like to have all these people hear about me." "You need not be afraid. You have a very good heard. Besides, it is no more public than at my lectures." "All right then!" "Move your chair forward a little. There, that is right." Prof. Crane arose, and assumed the attitude of a speaker. "Ladies and gentlemen," he commenced, after clearing his throat. The gentlemen in the saloon looked up from their newspapers in some surprise at this unexpected interruption. "Ladies and gentlemen, I am Prof. Crane, the phrenologist. I trust you will pardon the interruption if I publically examine the head of this young man, and describe his character as indicated by his phrenological development." "Go on," said a stout gentlemen opposite. "It will help to pass the time." "Thank you, sir. I trust that what I may say will not only help to pass the time, but lead you to reflect seriously upon the great importance of this science, and its claims upon your attention." All eyes were turned upon Ben, who bore the ordeal very well.