He was a graceful person, trimly and delicately fashioned, and in this strange setting altogether inexplicable.

But Dan's time was important, and he had not yet learned anything as to Edward G.Thatcher's whereabouts.

This languid young gentleman seemed wholly indifferent to the reporter's restlessness, and Dan's professional pride rebelled.
"Pardon me, but I must see Mr.Thatcher.Where is he, please ?" "He's gone, skipped! No manner of use in looking for him.

On my honor, he's not in town." "Then why didn't you say so and be done with it ?" demanded Dan angrily.
"Please keep your seat," replied the young fellow from the workbench.

"I really wish you would." He drew on his pipe for a moment, and Dan, curiously held by his look and manner and arrested by the gentleness of his voice, awaited further developments.