"A little over a mile." "I have never seen it. Would you mind walking as far as that?" "Oh, no." So the two boys walked out together. They were soon engaged in an animated conversation, consisting, for the most part, of questions proposed by Grant, and answers given by Herbert. Not far from the park they came to a vacant lot where some boys were playing ball. "Now, if we only had a ball, Herbert," said Grant, "we might have a little amusement." "I've got a ball in my pocket, but I don't use it much." "Let me see it." Herbert produced the ball, which proved to be an expensive one, better than any Grant had ever owned. "There, Herbert, stand here, and I will place myself about fifty feet away. Now, throw it to me, no matter how swiftly." They were soon engaged in throwing the ball to each other. Grant was a good ball player, and he soon interested the little boy in the sport. Our hero was pleased to see Herbert's quiet, listless manner exchanged for the animation which seemed better suited to a boy. "You are improving, Herbert," he said, after a while. "You would make a good player in time." "I never liked it before," said the little boy. "I never knew there was so much fun in playing ball." "We shall have to try it every day. I suppose it is about time to go home to supper." "And we haven't been to Central Park, after all." "That will do for another day. Are boys allowed to play ball in the park?" "Two afternoons in the week, I believe, but I never played there." "We shall have to try it some day." "I should like to play--with you."