That Jenny's absence was, in some way, connected with Mark, was a thought that soon presented itself.

But, in what way, he could not make out; for he had never heard the name of the ship in which his grandson sailed, and knew nothing of her expected arrival home.
By the time Mr.Jones appeared, ready to start on the proposed mission to New York, Mr.Lofton had made up his mind not to attempt to follow Jenny, but to wait for some word from her.

Not until this sudden separation took place did Mr.Lofton understand how necessary to his happiness the affectionate girl had become.

So troubled was he at her absence, and so anxious for her safety, that when night came he found himself unable to sleep.

In thinking about the dangers that would gather around one so ignorant of the world, his imagination magnified the trials and temptations to which, alone as she was, she would be exposed.