"I wish to see Miss Vard at once," said Dan, and produced a card.
"Miss Vard is not here, sir."
"Not here? Has she gone out?"
"No, sir; she's been to Europe and ain't got back yet."
Dan steadied himself against the wall, for he felt a little dizzy again.
"I know. But she must be back! Her boat docked three or four hours ago."
"We was expectin' her to-day, sir—her and her father; but they ain't got here yet."
Dan looked at the boy for a moment; then he gave him a silver dollar.
"Are you sure?" he asked.
"Yes, sir; I'm sure," and Dan could see that he was telling the truth.