But was this the home of the rich Mrs. Parker with whom Elsie had been traveling in the South? It could not be!
“Does Mrs. Parker live here?”
“Yes, I reckon that’s her name,” answered the man. Then he gave a sharp whistle, and a colored man loafed deliberately round a corner of the old house.
“Take care of the hosses, Toby,” ordered Cunningham. “You know what to do, you black rascal. Give them a good rubbing down, or I’ll tan your hide!”
“Yes, suh; all right, suh!” said Toby, moving with greater alacrity when he recognized the man in the carriage.
Cunningham jumped out.
“Come on, suh,” he said to Frank.
Feeling bewildered, as well as dismayed, Frank obeyed.
Where was Elsie? Why did she not appear at the door to welcome him? Perhaps she was ill! The thought was startling. He had not asked “Muldoon” about that.
“Come right in,” invited Cunningham, as he led the way.