“Why, the conduct of Mr. Tobias Hawkins, as he called himself. Did you notice him?”
The dwarf nodded.
“And rather a wide-awake sort, I thought him,” said he. “But I did not see anything queer in him. Very even, and much like a gentleman.”
But Ben shook his head.
“I don’t mean in that respect. He appeared to be all you say, but at the same time there was a something——” he paused as though uncertain for a moment, then went on with thoughtful face. “To all appearance his meeting with Merchant Livingstone was pure accident.”
The Porcupine opened his eyes wide.
“What?” demanded he. “And was it not so?”
“I think not,” replied Ben. “Rather, I am inclined to believe that it was a cunningly devised plan. I scarcely know what makes me think so, but Hawkins purposed making acquaintance of Mr. Livingstone before he spoke to him; and so expertly did he contrive matters that he’s made it appear that it was Mr. Livingstone who sought him.”
“Why, it may be so,” said the dwarf. “These traders have very curious ways, I’ve heard. But, in any event, it makes no difference. We are not at all interested in their doings.”
“I don’t know,” said young Cooper, gravely. “If the matter which Mr. Hawkins has in mind is commercial, of course we are not; but,” and he turned his head as though to get a fresh sight of the gentlemen in question, “if it is something else, perhaps it may turn out that we are.”