As Wacker disappeared through the doorway, Bart leaned from the platform.
"Here is your package, Mr. Baker," he said. "What is the trouble—are you ill?"
Baker struggled to his feet. He was in a pitiable state of agitation and nervousness.
"No! no!" he panted, "you keep the package—for a time. Till—till I explain. I've got it! I've got it at last!" he quavered in an exultant tone. "Air—I'm choking! I—I'll be back soon—"
He rushed to the door overcome, like a man on the verge of a fit.
Bart started to follow him. Just then, however, one of the recent bidders came up to ask some question about a purchase which required that Bart consult the record book.
When he had disposed of the matter, Bart hurried to the outside. Baker was nowhere in sight.