Billy deftly caught the coin, and, with a low bow, took his departure. It might have surprised the explorer to see the janitor of the St. Joseph flat invest that dollar in a Manhattan cocktail and a Reina cigar at the Hoffman House café.
Stolburst deferred his visit to Miss Lizzie Nightingale. He tried to think as to the manner Zulima had devised by which he could escape the wrath of her uncle.
Could it be that she had discovered a weak spot in subtle Ajeeb’s armor? But it took a master mind in cunning to overreach Ajeeb.
“I wish I could see the princess in person,” thought Stolburst; “but I suppose I must be satisfied to take things as I can get them.”
It never once struck him that nothing prevented Marie from coming to the hotel.
Come what might, Stolburst determined to see the maid. He knew the girl was very faithful, and that Zulima regarded her more as a friend than as a servant.
The hour of nine struck by Trinity when Henry Stolburst entered Battery Park. The night was windy, and there was a steady downpour of rain.
Despite this latter annoyance, he carried no umbrella. What was a sound ducking to a man of his experience?
The park was dark and lonely, as it always is at night in winter.
Stolburst wore a heavy cloak, and underneath its folds his right hand grasped the handle of a revolver. He was directed by a policeman to the Barge Office. The building was closed, and no Marie awaited him.