Blodget watched the countenance of Monteagle narrowly, as the youth replied, ‘I have some faint recollection of the fellow’s face. His nose, that seems to have been knocked out of its proper shape, struck me like an old acquaintance, but where, and under what circumstances I have seen it before, I am unable to determine. But let him go. You and me are met now for another purpose.’
‘Let us walk along towards Dupont street,’ said the other, musing.
‘Well, on then. But what engages your thoughts at this moment?’
‘As for that, Monteagle, what would you give to know?’
‘It’s not very important, I’ll be sworn. Some love affair doubtless.’
‘You are a wizard,’ replied Blodget. ‘It is a love affair, but one that interests you much more than me.’
‘Interest me?’ said the youth, much surprised.
‘It is a great secret, sir,’ and Blodget squeezed the arm of his companion.
‘If it is a secret you are bound to keep it close. Is it not so?’
‘Not exactly. But come into this shantee with me, and I will explain matters to your full satisfaction.’