“I believe we met on the steamer coming down the river,” began Gerald politely.
“Yes,” answered Standish promptly. “You are with an Englishman.”
“Yes.”
“I recognized you both, but I did not wish to intrude. Do you remain long in this city?”
“I don’t know. Mr. Brooke is making a leisurely tour of the States, and it depends upon him.”
“If you are not expected to spend all your time with him, I should like to go about a little with you.”
“Then you are going to spend some time in St. Louis?” Gerald ventured to inquire.
“That depends on circumstances. I am here on a little matter of business. I am a traveling salesman.”
“Indeed! In what line?”
“I travel for a house in Chicago,” said Mr. Standish vaguely. “I would answer your questions, but our house is peculiar, and requires its agents to be very close-mouthed.”