"I just called upon my aunt, and learned that she had departed on a journey."
"Precisely so."
"The servant thought she had gone to California. Is that correct?"
"Did she not write to inform you of her destination?"
"No, sir, she was probably too hurried. Of course you know where she is."
"Even if I did know I should not be at liberty to tell you. If your aunt has not informed you, she probably has her reasons."
Vernon flushed, and he found it hard to control his anger.
"Then you refuse to tell me?"
"I do not feel called upon to tell. Have you any special business with your aunt? If so, I will mention it in any letter I may have occasion to write."
"It seems to me this is a very foolish mystery."