After a time Bob walked forward and stepped into the smoking compartment where Tully and the stranger were engaged in animated conversation.
Tully looked up but there was little warmth in his glance. That, however, did not deter Bob from sitting down on one of the comfortable leather upholstered benches. The stranger looked at Bob and a rather pleasant smile framed his lips.
“Going to Florida?” he asked.
“Jacksonville,” said Bob laconically.
“That’s fine, I’m going there too. Hamsa, Joe Hamsa, is the name,” said the stranger reaching over and extending his hand in greeting.
Bob grasped the extended hand but he winced slightly at the strength of the other’s grip.
“I’m Bob Houston of Washington,” replied Bob by way of introducing himself.
“Going south on business or just taking a vacation?” asked Joe Hamsa and Bob thought there was a peculiar flicker in the other’s eyes.
“Well, it’s a combination of both,” replied Bob.
“Wish I could say as much,” went on Hamsa, “but it’s all business with me. I’m glad you boys are on the car today. I don’t like to travel alone and especially at night.”