Meanwhile, Sylvius Hogg was hastening toward Bergen.

His tenacious nature and energetic character, though daunted for a moment, were now reasserting themselves.

He refused to credit Ole's death, nor would he admit that Hulda was doomed never to see her lover again.

No, until the fact was established beyond a doubt, he was determined to regard the report as false.
But had he any information which would serve as a basis for the task he was about to undertake in Bergen?
Yes, though we must admit that the clew was of a very vague nature.
He knew merely the date on which the bottle had been cast into the sea by Ole Kamp, and the date and locality in which it had been recovered from the waves.

He had learned those facts through the letter just received from the Naval Department, the letter which had decided him to leave for Bergen immediately, in order that he might consult with Help Bros., and with the most experienced seamen of that port.
The journey was made as quickly as possible.