That was something that bothered Jack during breakfast, but at eight o'clock, the hour when the express offices are generally open, they were directed by the clerk how to reach it, and in process of time drew up before the counter. To Julian's inquiry if there was a box there addressed to himself the clerk placed the box before him, and never asked him who he was or where he came from.
"Now, the next thing is to keep an eye out for the telegraph office. If you see a sign sticking out, let me know it."
"I see a sign already," said Jack, pointing it out.
Julian began to feel a little more at home. He had worked in a telegraph office, and he was certain that he was going among friends. The boys were there, and they came up to wait on him, but Julian went ahead until he confronted the operator at his desk.
"Is Mr. Fay in?" Julian asked.
"Yes, sir. He is in his private office. Would you like to see him?"
"I would thank you first to give me a screw-driver so that I can take this cover off. There is a letter in here addressed to him."
The screw-driver was soon forthcoming, and while Julian was at work at it, a hustling little man suddenly stood before him.
"Do you want to see me?" he asked, in a business way.
Julian had by this time taken out the letter, which was placed on top, and handed it to Mr. Fay, who leaned against the counter and read it. The boys watched him closely, and finally saw his eyes light up with surprise.