The professor prepared an elaborate report for the club which had sent out the expedition, in which he stated: "After a prolonged investigation, I am inclined to think that the buffalo, like the mastodon and the dodo, is an extinct animal, as I can discover no trace of a living buffalo so far, though I am in hopes that when we visit Long Island, which I am told is wild and savage, we may meet with some specimen of this almost mythical beast."
There was going to be a steeple-chase at Jerome Park, and Jack sent Miss Van Hoosen an invitation to ride to the grounds.
This led to the first severe mortification he received, after the report in the papers, for Lena refused in the following brief note:
"Miss Van Hoosen presents her compliments to Mr. Harkaway, and begs to thank him for his invitation, which she is reluctantly compelled to decline."
On receiving this, Jack showed it to Harvey.
"Look at that, Dick," he exclaimed, "and tell me what is the meaning of it."
Harvey read it, and replied, "It is laconic enough, and it means, simply, that the lady will not go."
"What would you do, under the circumstances?"
"Call upon her and have an explanation."
"I shouldn't be surprised, if she has seen that paragraph about Mr. Cobb's money."