"You seem to be in trouble," she said kindly.
"Yes, ma'am," answered Grit. "My ticket and money have been stolen, and the conductor threatens to put me off the train."
"So I heard. Who do you think robbed you?"
"The man who sat beside me and got out at Exeter."
"I noticed him. I wonder you didn't detect him in the act of robbing you."
"So do I," answered Grit. "He must be a professional. All the same, I am ashamed of being so taken in."
"I heard you say it was important for you to reach Boston."
"It is," said Grit.
He was about to explain why, when it occurred to him that it would not be prudent in a crowded car, which might contain suspicious and unprincipled persons, to draw attention to the nature of his packet.