“She was born there, and lived there till she was nearly eighteen—is that true?” he asked again.
“Quite true,” Miss Brown answered.
“You know the offices of the P.& O. line of steamers in Pall Mall?” he asked.
She nodded.
“Well?”
“Get a sailing list to Australia—there should be a boat going Thursday. Present yourself as a prospective passenger. See how many young women alone there are going out, and ask their names. Incidentally put in a little spare time watching the office.”
She looked at him with parted lips and wide-open eyes.
“Do you think—” she began.
He shook her hand warmly and stepped back into the taxicab.
“Good night!” he said. “No questions, please. I sha’n’t expect you at the office at the usual time to-morrow, at any rate. Telephone or run around if you’ve anything to tell me.”