“How did you come here, Juba?” asked Frank.
“One of them officers took me to Chicago. I lived out with a lady, but when she died, I went to a ’telligence office and there I met your papa. He brought me out here. I didn’t at first like livin’ down under the ground, but I don’t mind it now. Massa Fox treats me well, and I ain’t no wish to change.”
This was the substance of what Juba had to communicate. The rest of the day passed quietly. At nightfall James Fox came home, looking very sober. But he came alone.
CHAPTER XX
ERNEST EXPLORES THE CAVE
James Fox had very little to say during the evening. He was evidently preoccupied and anxious and paid scant attention to the boys.
Frank knew so little of his father’s business or occupation that he could conceive of no cause for worriment. When his advances met with little response he asked: “Have you got a headache, papa?”
“No—yes, child. My head troubles me some. Be as quiet as you can.”