“We’ll take things easy in our room for a short while,” Jack informed his chum, as they ascended by means of the “lift” or elevator. “Along about halfpast two I’ll call up my friend, and distant relative, Mr.—er, oh! yes, Mr. Casper Herriott, and make some arrangement for joining him tonight at his home—I’ve always been a bit eager to see. just what sort of family my—er second cousin Casper might have, and this will be an excellent opportunity to satisfy that—er yen, as you would say.”
“Huh! jest so, suh, an’ it shore pleases me to see how loyal yeou are to yeour illustrious fambly tree—second cousin is real good, I’d say, suh, mighty good connection.”
“Take it all seriously, partner, even when we’re snug in our own room—such things need constant practice, and shouldn’t be thrown off and on just as the occasion arises; such a habit breeds carelessness, you must know.”
“Jest so, suh, jest so; I takes the hint, okay,” gurgled Perk.
CHAPTER XII
When Cousins Get in Touch
Jack was as good as his word.
At exactly half after two he was in touch with the office where the Government at Washington was ably represented by the gentleman he had been instructed to get in close intercourse with, unbeknown to outsiders.
“Is this Mr. Herriott—Mr. Casper Herriott?” he asked, when he heard some one handling the receiver after the house operator had heard his polite request.
“It is,” came back in firm tones.
“Cousin Casper Herriott?” continued Jack, a bit mischievously.