Tutor Maybe appeared at this juncture, and began to talk with Frank about his studies; but Merry was in no mood to discuss such matters then, and he promptly said so.
“To-morrow, or the day after, will be time enough,” he said. “Don’t bother me now. I have enough on my mind.”
It was not considered advisable to alarm the tutor by telling him of Frank’s adventure, and Maybe was left to fret and worry as much as he liked, while the boys went out to look after Bruce. The day passed, and Browning failed to return. As evening drew on, Frank grew restless and anxious. He could not think that the big fellow was remaining away out of pique or anger, and he began to fear, despite the remembered assurance of Mr. Noname, that some thing had happened to Bruce.
Again and again he thought of the strange hammering at the door in the passage of the queer café, the crash, and the groans. At last, for all of any danger he might encounter, he resolved to visit the place again. From his trunk Merry took out a revolver, which he carefully loaded. Diamond and Rattleton watched him with curiosity, not to say anxiety.
“Where are you going?” the Virginian asked, after awhile.
“To the dive where I had the little scrap,” declared Frank.
“No, not there?”
“Yes, right there.”
Jack rose.
“Come, Rattleton,” he said; “we must get our shooting-irons.”