At first glance he did not recognize the physician, for the latter's face was much bloated, showing that he had been drinking heavily, and his general appearance was seedy to the last degree.
"Why, hullo!" cried Dr. Remington, on seeing our hero. "When did you get back to Chicago?"
"I got back yesterday," replied Robert coldly. He was about to pass on when the doctor detained him.
"Got back yesterday, eh? Did you have a nice trip?"
"Yes."
"Glad to hear it, Frost. And how is Mrs. Vernon?"
"Very well."
"Good enough. I suppose an ocean trip was just what she wanted."
"It was," said Robert. He was struck with a sudden idea that perhaps Remington knew something of Frederic Vernon's whereabouts. "How have you been?"
"Oh, so so. You see, I've been troubled a good deal lately with the grippe."