"Perhaps," he assented. "But if it isn't, I'll tell you how you may know that we were aware of it. My partner and I are the two who called there to see you, and couldn't, as you were then supposed to be sleeping off your jag."
Mason had a queer expression upon his face.
He looked puzzled, angry and curious, and finally asked:
"How did you happen to go way down there to my uncle's place in Georgia, looking for me, I'd like to know?"
"Important business brought us to that neighborhood, Mr. Mason."
"May I inquire what it was?"
"You may, but we won't tell you."
"Insolent!" exclaimed the young man, bridling up again.
"Your question was worse!"
"Well, to bring this interview to a close, I deny your ugly insinuation, and declare that I was not out of New York since my uncle vanished. Now, if you have nothing to say except to cast aspersions upon my character, I will wish you good-morning, as I am busy and my time is valuable."