"I suppose my aunt is at home, Martha," said Frederic blithely.
"No, Mr. Frederic, she has gone away."
"You mean she has gone into the city. When will she return?"
"I don't know."
"Why don't you know?"
"She has gone on a journey."
"Indeed!" said Remington, much disappointed. "Where has she gone?"
"She said she might go to California."
Martha had been instructed to say this, and did not know but it was true.
"Well, well! That is strange!" ejaculated Remington.