June came and the hottest month of the yearbegan. A lot of travelers came to the city by the sea. All of the hotels werefull except Mr. Johnson's. The prices of all the rooms were the lowest in thecity but few people stayed there. The fire broke out three times in a year andfour travelers died in the accidents. Most workers left there and found jobs inother hotels. Mr. Johnson had to do most work himself.
Itwas eleven o'clock. Most rooms were still empty. Mr. Johnson worked for thewhole day and was very tired. He went to close the gate when a young man camein, with a big bag in his hand.
"Whatcan I do for you, sir?" asked Mr. Johnson.
"The cheapest room in yourhotel."
"OK,"said Mr. Johnson, "but it's on the top floor."
"It doesn't matter. I think you have alift in your hotel."
"Ofcourse, sir," said the manager. "It'll take you right there. By theway, may I keep your bag for you?"
"No,thanks. There's nothing expensive in it but a long rope."
Oh? What do you bring it with youfor?"
"I'mafraid another fire will happen in your hotel. If it does, I'll throw the ropeout of the window so that I'll be able to escape from (逃脱) it."
"Yes?"Mr. Johnson said in surprise. "So you have to pay for the bill before yougo to your room."
