“Yes, sir.”
“Do you tarry there?”
“Not long. I am going to Ohio.”
“You seem young to travel alone. Perhaps, however, you have company?”
“No, sir,” Robert answered. “I am traveling alone.”
There was a look of satisfaction on the man’s face, which Robert did not see. Even if he had he would not have known how to interpret it.
“It is pleasant to go to New York by boat,” said the stranger. “I prefer it to the cars; that is, when I can get a stateroom. Did you secure one?”
“Yes, sir.”
“You are more fortunate than I. I found they had all been taken. I would not care so much if I were not suffering from fever and ague.”
“I suppose you have a berth?” said Robert.