“There have been letters addressed to him here by that name,” I said; “can you tell me what has become of them?”
He shook his head.
“That would not be in my department, sir; you will ascertain by inquiring at the head-porter’s bureau round the corner.”
I thanked him and made my way thither across the reception hall. The answer to my question was given at once.
“There are letters for a Mr. Marx nearly every morning, sir, and telegrams,” said the official; “but I don’t think that Mr. Marx himself is stopping at the hotel; another gentleman always applies for them and sends them on.”
“And is the other gentleman staying here?” I asked.
“Yes, sir; No. 110.”
“Has he any authority to receive them from Mr. Marx?” I inquired.
“I believe so. He showed us a note from Mr. Marx, asking him to receive and forward them, and he has to sign, too, for every one he receives. It is a rule with us that anyone receiving letters not addressed to himself should do so, whether he has authority or not.”
“Can you tell me his name?” I asked. “I am sorry to give you so much trouble, but I particularly wish to ascertain Mr. Marx’s whereabouts, and this gentleman knows it.”