"I'll bring the pen and ink afterward," said the negro.
In spite of his extraordinary situation and uncertain prospects, Jack ate with his usual appetite.
Then he penned a letter to his uncle, briefly detailing the circumstances of his present situation.
"I am afraid," the letter concluded, "that while I am shut up here, Mrs. Hardwick will carry Ida out of the city, where it will be more difficult for us to get on her track. She is evidently a dangerous woman."
Two days passed and no notice was taken of the letter.
CHAPTER XXVII
JACK BEGINS TO REALIZE HIS SITUATION
"It's very strange," thought Jack, "that Uncle Abel doesn't take any notice of my letter."
In fact, our hero felt rather indignant, as well as surprised, and on the next visit of Dr. Robinson, he asked: "Hasn't my uncle been here to ask about me?"