“Where do you live, what part?” asked his new acquaintance.
“Over north, 11416 Wells street.” Ted saw no reason why he should not tell this harmless stranger where he lived. Although he had no suspicion of him, he had made up his mind that such questions he would answer, no matter who asked them.
For he realized that the one way to arouse curiosity was to appear secretive.
“My daughter lives up that way, too,” the man said. He seemed quite interested in the idea of making conversation. 35
“I will leave you for a minute.” The train was slowing up for Racine. His telegram was all ready except for the address. He rushed into the ticket office, added the address and had it sent collect, and had plenty of time to board the train.
“I wonder why,” thought Ted, “he should have to run into that station.” Ted’s suspicions were somewhat aroused. He decided to appear as if he had not taken note of the actions of his acquaintance.
Schmidt had underestimated the ability of the boy. He was so young, he thought, there was no necessity for special care.
Then, too, he was so very affable, so very simple. To his questions as to who would meet him Ted answered that he thought no one would, the time he was coming was a little uncertain, he added.
“No one is to meet me, either. Perhaps we can both go up home together, eh?”
“Sure,” replied the boy, “that would be fine.”