"The plot thickens," said Reg to himself. "Now, what the devil has he to do with Joe?" and he called a cab and had himself driven to Blue Gums.
"Well, did you see him?" asked Hil, eagerly.
"Yes, and who do you think picked him up in a cab?"
"Mr. Philamore?"
"Yes, but how did you guess that?" said Reg, in surprise.
"I'll tell you what it is. I fancy that red-headed gentleman either knows something, or is not exactly what he professes to be."
"We'll wait until we hear from Hal, before doing anything further," said Reg.
"Yes, it would be just as well. But you will stay for dinner, as Mr. Goodchild and some Tasmanian friends are coming to-night."
Reg did not refuse, needless to say. On his return to his hotel he found two telegrams and a letter waiting for him. Opening one of the telegrams, he read:
"Toowoomba. Wyck called here day before flood. Left for Sydney.—Hal."