He asked various questions about the hermit and his mode of life, which excited no wonder, as the curiosity about the hermit was shared by all.
John Trafton allowed himself to say one thing more that increased this feeling.
“I won’t tell all I know,” he said, “but I can tell you this hermit lives like a prince. He’s got handsomer furniture than there is in any house in Cook’s Harbor.”
No one had told the fisherman this, but he knew the statement would make a sensation and chose to embellish what he had heard from Robert.
“That’s a strange idea to furnish a cave that way,” said the stranger.
“It may be strange, but it’s true.”
“Do you think he keeps a good deal of money by him?” asked the stranger with evident interest.
John Trafton nodded significantly.
The conversation now drifted into other channels. The stranger ordered another glass of whisky and went out.
“Where is that man staying?” asked Cummings.