Casey was gone; he could see no one within but Old Isaac, the assistant.
Larry opened the door and entered.

"Hello, Isaac.

Where's grandmother ?" It is not a desirable trait in one connected with a pawnshop, that is also reputed to be a fence, to show surprise or curiosity.

So Isaac's reply was confined to a few facts and brief direction.
Wondering, Larry mounted the stairway which opened from the confidential business room behind the pawnshop.

It was common enough for his grandmother to rent out the third floor; but to a painter, and a crazy painter--that seemed strange.