When Rudolph reached the sidewalk he stopped a moment to reflect on the probable meaning of the advertisement.
"Perhaps it is a trap," he thought. "Perhaps, after so many years, they want to punish me. Shall I go?"
His hesitation was only temporary.
"There's nothing to be afraid of," he concluded. "Very likely I shall hear something to my advantage. I will go."
Ten minutes' walk brought him to Nassau street. He ascended two flights of stairs, opened the door of No. —, and found himself in a lawyer's office. A tall man of forty was seated at a desk, with some papers and books lying before him.
"Well," he said inquiringly, "what can I do for you, sir?"
The address was not very cordial, for Rudolph did not have the look of one likely to be a profitable client.
"Are you Mr. Jacob Morris, attorney-at-law?" asked the tramp.
"That is my name."
"I am Rudolph Rugg."