“Not this time; this is only to take a run over to New Jersey, to a little town called Cranford.”
“What’s the matter out there?”
“I want you to see Professor Allen. He is to deliver a lecture at the dinner of the Engineers’ Club to-night, and he has promised a copy of his remarks in advance.”
Larry was soon on his way, crossing the Hudson River on the ferry to the New Jersey side, where he took a train for Cranford. He found Professor Allen’s house without much trouble, and inquired for the gentleman.
“I don’t believe you can see him,” replied the girl who answered the door.
“Why not; isn’t he at home?” asked Larry.
“Well, he is and he isn’t,” replied the servant. “You see he’s out in his laboratory making experiments, which is what he’s most always up to, and he hasn’t been in to his meals for a week.”
“Hasn’t he eaten for a week?” asked Larry, in some surprise.
“Oh, bless your heart, of course he’s eaten, but he will not come to the table. His wife has to go out to the laboratory with a plate of victuals and a cup of coffee, and fairly feed him.”
“What’s the trouble?”