The boy's eyes sparkled with excitement.
"I should like nothing better," he said.
"The commission will be to trace out Mr. Taylor's daughter, and find out whether she left a child. Necessary instructions will be given in writing."
"Do you think I am old enough?" asked Mark, excited but doubtful whether he was competent for the duty assigned him.
"Discretion is more needful than age," answered Mr. Hardy. "Perhaps an older messenger would be better, but as my friend wishes to avoid publicity, he is disposed to try you. Would your mother be willing to have you go?"
"I think so, sir, but I hate to leave her alone."
"Mr. Taylor proposes to board with her while you are absent, if you think she would be willing to receive him."
"I know she would be glad to secure such a boarder," answered Mark, quickly; "with that help she would be able to get along very well."
"Then that matter is probably settled. Now a few words to guide you in your quest."
These words need not be repeated here, as in following Mark's journey it will be understood what they were.