"Is Mr. Noel Herriott aboard? Message for Mr. Noel Herriott!"
"I am Mr. Herriott."
He went forward, signed his name in the receipt-book, and opened the envelope. He stood with his back to Eglah, and remained so motionless that she was seized by an apprehension some evil had overtaken her father. Just as she rose he turned and approached her.
"Has anything happened to father?
"This is not from the South. It does not refer to him. We may have to stop here. Keep your seat till I ascertain positively."
Very soon he returned, followed by a porter, who promptly collected satchels and magazines.
"I find I must wait here until two o'clock in the morning."
"Why delay reaching Woodbury? I beg of you let us hasten on."
"There are reasons necessitating it that will be explained later."
She had drawn back, but he took her arm.