I don't just comprehend this," said Mr.Markland, with a perplexed manner.
"The question is easily settled," remarked Mr.Brainard.

"Sit here a few moments, and I will step around to the City Hotel." And as he spoke, he arose and went quickly from his office.

In about ten minutes he returned.
"Well, what is the result ?" was the rather anxious inquiry of Mr.
Markland.
"Can't make it out," sententiously answered Mr.Brainard.
"What did you learn ?" "Nothing." "Of course, Mr.Lyon has not been there ?" "I don't know about that.

He certainly was not there as Mr.Lyon." "Was any one there answering to his description ?" "Yes." "From the South ?" "Yes.

From Richmond--so the register has it; and the name recorded is Melville." "You asked about him particularly ?" "I did, and the description given, both by the landlord and his clerk, corresponded in a singular manner with the appearance of Mr.
Lyon.