"No dandy," Mr. Byrd carefully explained, "but a strong man, who believes in work. He was possibly in a state of somewhat nervous hurry," he went on, suggestively, "and if he wore an overcoat at all, it was a gray one."
The face of the man lighted up.
"I seem to remember," said he. "Did he have a very bright blue eye and a high color?"
Mr. Byrd nodded.
"And did he carry a peculiarly shaped bag, of which he was very careful?"
"I don't know," said Mr. Byrd, but remembering the model, added with quick assurance, "I have no doubt he did"; which seemed to satisfy the other, for he at once cried:
"I recollect such a person very well. I noticed him before he got to the station; as soon in fact as he came in sight. He was walking down the highway, and seemed to be thinking about something. He's of the kind to attract attention. What about him, sir?"
"Nothing. He was in trouble of some kind, and he went from home without saying where he was going; and his friends are anxious about him, that is all. Do you think you could swear to his face if you saw it?"
"I think I could. He was the only stranger that got on to the cars that afternoon."
"Do you remember, then, the day?"