"Not the way I fix up," replied the Indian.
The boys talked over the plan, and agreed it would do no harm for John to attend a seance of the professor, whose address was given in the advertisement.
[Illutsration: Give me the card!—Page 177]
John's best friend would hardly have known him as he sallied forth the next day. He wore the bandages on his head, which was cut by his fracas with the fake professor, and, in addition, he had tied one about his jaw, as though he had the toothache.
He had no difficulty in finding the place. Outside the door was a sign reading:
PROFESSOR ALI BABA. SCIENTIST.
John was admitted by a rather slick individual, in a shining, greasy suit of black.
"The professor is busy just now," he said. "He will see you soon. Meanwhile you had better give me a dollar, and state on which particular line you wish to consult him."
John handed over a two dollar bill and said:
"Tell him to make it extra strong. I have lost a valuable article."