"I know nothing of the kind, and will not waste words on you. But if you did not follow me why are you here?"
"I am here on business, and not ashamed to own it."
"Indeed. And you—did you come in search of your missing father?"
"I did."
"You once said he was missing. It is a long journey for one so young."
"It's a queer place for you to come to."
"I am with an exploring party from Yale College. We are studying the fauna and flora of central Africa—at least, they are doing so under my guidance."
"They must be learning a heap—under you."
"Do you mean to say I am not capable of teaching them!" cried
Josiah Crabtree, wrathfully.
"Well, if I was in their place I would want somebody else besides the man who was discharged by Captain Putnam and who failed to get the appointment he wanted at Columbia College because he could not stand the examination."