“I suppose we can find out by going down to the different offices,” said Oliver. “Suppose we do that before they close for the day?”
“A good plan,” rejoined Mr. Whyland. “I do not care to remain here any more than you do.”
Stopping an Englishman whom they met, they secured directions to the various shipping-offices, and then started for the nearest at once.
“The Neolia sails in four days,” was the reply received here; “but the passenger list is full. No more can be taken.”
“I don’t care much,” remarked Gus when they were once more outside. “Four days to wait are nearly as bad as ten. Maybe we will find something that goes to-morrow.”
“Small chance of that, I think,” said Mr. Whyland. “Still, let us try.”
In five minutes they were at another office. Here they were told that no vessel would sail within several days, and nearly every one was full.
“I thought it would be so,” said Mr. Whyland when they stood outside once more. “Perhaps the steamship company has bought up the places.”
At that moment a man with a nautical bearing stepped up and tapped Oliver on the shoulder.