All at once he started in surprise, and his heart beat joyfully.
There, just descending the gang-plank, was his tried friend, Mr. Oliver Carter, whom he supposed over a thousand miles away in Florida.
“Mr. Carter!” exclaimed Phil, dashing forward.
“Philip!” exclaimed the old gentleman, much surprised. “How came you here? Did Mr. Pitkin send you?”
CHAPTER XXIII.
AN EXPLANATION.
It would be hard to tell which of the two was the more surprised at the meeting, Philip or Mr. Carter.
“I don't understand how Mr. Pitkin came to hear of my return. I didn't telegraph,” said the old gentleman.
“I don't think he knows anything about it,” said Phil.