"Nor did I, in a sense," Foster answered with a smile. "I mean I didn't know it was your house."
"My name was on the label of the bag and rather conspicuous."
"It would have meant nothing if I had seen it. In fact, I must own I don't know it now."
The girl looked puzzled, and Foster explained that he had come with a packet, but had merely been given Graham's name and the number of the house. He added that he had found he must look for the man in Newcastle.
"Then you are a friend of Mr. Austin's?" she said.
Foster thought it strange that she had not told him she knew Austin when she asked about the Crossing, but he replied: "I'm a friend of Miss Austin's."
"Ah!" she said thoughtfully; "do you mind explaining what you mean by that?"
"Perhaps it's hardly worth while, but I can't claim that Austin and I are particularly friendly. Our business interests sometimes clash."
She was silent for a few moments, and he wondered why both she and the man had been curious to know how far his acquaintance with Austin went. Then she looked up with a quick movement. "Newcastle is not a charming town, and if you have no other reason for going there, it might be better to post the packet."
Foster was somewhat puzzled. She had spoken meaningly, as if she meant to give him a hint.