“Which clears up that part of the mystery,” thought Frank, as he listened outside.
“I told you nothing but the truth,” declared Joaquin. “Your father sent that message to you by me.”
“But he is not here—he is not here!” panted the distressed child. “You said I should find him here. If you deceive me in that, why not in everything?”
“Your father was here, but ere we could reach this place he found it necessary to depart. Enemies were searching for him, and he was forced to flee; but he left a message for me, telling me whither he went and directing me to bring you. Trust me, Felicia, and you shall soon see him.”
Frank quivered a little with rage as he listened to the lying wretch.
Felicia drew a little nearer and looked earnestly into the face of the man.
“Oh, I can’t believe you are deceiving me!” she said. “You do not seem so terribly wicked.”
He laughed pleasantly.
“I know it must seem suspicious to you, child; but trust me a little longer.”
“If you had only let my friends come to me!”