“Are you the superintendent?” he asked, bowing courteously.
“No,” said the clerk. “He is in Quebec just now.”
“Perhaps you can give me the information that I want.”
“What is it?”
“I have been sent to inquire after some passengers that came out here last year.”
“Oh yes, I can tell all that can be told,” said the clerk, readily. “We have the registration books here, and you are at liberty to look up any names you wish. Step this way, please.” And he led the way to an inner office.
“What year did they come out in?” asked the clerk.
“Last year.”
“Last year—an awful year to look up. 1846—yes, here is the book for that year—a year which you are aware was an unparalleled one.”
“I have heard so.”