The great mystery surrounding everything completely baffled the Russian police, and though they half suspected Barnwell, they were not able to bring anything home to him, and he all the while maintained the appearance of a rich cosmopolitan, and if they followed him in his many journeyings they were unable to see that he was doing more than traveling for pleasure.
One day, while riding in "Unter Linden," who should he meet but Mr. Clark and his beautiful daughter riding in the opposite direction, but he was so changed that neither of them recognized him, although looking directly at him.
Laura Clark was also somewhat changed, but by her being in her father's company, Barnwell came to the conclusion that she was yet unmarried, and had most likely proved true to their betrothal, nearly three years before.
He was determined to present himself, and so ordered his coachman to turn about and follow their carriage.
In a few moments it stopped in front of a fashionable hotel, which they entered, and were soon lost to sight.
Calling a servant, he told him to take his card to Mr. Clark, and quietly waited in the parlor for a reply.
Presently that gentleman came down with the card in his hand, and a look of inquiry on his face.
"Mr. Clark, you do not recognize me," said he, rising.
"No, not as a young American gentleman, bearing the name of William Barnwell, whom I met some three or four years ago," said the old man.
"Well, sir, I am the same individual."