CHAPTER IV
The Prophecy Recalled
The steamer from Newfoundland that brought Shelby and Blair to New York arrived during Christmas week.
The two men, however, were far from feeling holiday cheer as they reached the wharf and faced the hard trial of telling Mr. and Mrs. Crane of their son's death.
But it had to be done, and they felt it their duty to lose no time in performing the sad errand.
No one met them at the steamer, for its hour of arrival was uncertain and they had discouraged their friends from the attempt.
Indeed only telegrams from Newfoundland had apprised any one of their arrival, for letters would have come by the same boat they came themselves.
"Let's go straight to the Cranes' and get it over," said Blair; with a sigh. "I dread the ordeal."
"So do I," Shelby confessed. "I wish we could see Mr. Crane alone, first."