Then resuming his seat, he took up a morning paper. At first he read it listlessly, but soon his face assumed a look of eager interest.

This was the paragraph that arrested his attention:

“Should this meet the eye of Rudolph Rugg, who left England in the fall of 1887, he is requested to communicate with Jacob Morris, attorney at law, Room 1,503, No. —​— Nassau street.”

Rudolph rose hurriedly.

Going?” asked the bartender.

Yes; I’ll be back again soon.”

CHAPTER XVI

AT THE ST. REGIS

When Rudolph reached the sidewalk he stopped to reflect on the meaning of the advertisement.

Perhaps it’s a trap,” he thought. “Perhaps after so many years they want to punish me. Shall I go?”