But he would not give up the ticket.
"I will go to the steamer with you, and give you the ticket there," he said.
He was firm in this, and wondering what he had best do next, Frederic Vernon led the way to the street and hailed a passing cab.
The two got in and were driven to the docks without delay. The young man had his hand-baggage with him.
"Now I am off," he said. "Give me the ticket and the money, and good-by to you."
"I will take you on the steamer," said Robert firmly.
Vernon grated his teeth, but had to agree, and both went on board, and down to the stateroom which had been selected. It was a room for two, but as yet Vernon occupied it alone.
"Now let me see that money and the ticket," snapped the young man. "I am not going off until I am sure that everything is right."
Sitting down on the edge of the lower berth, Robert brought out the articles in question, and passed them over. Vernon inspected the ticket closely and counted the money.
"There is twenty dollars missing," he declared.