"I do not. There are six different points to which I forward letters, in rotation, both those from you and from others on various matters of business, and these points are widely scattered. My impression is that Colonel Weatherby is in none of these places and that the letters are again forwarded to him to—wherever he may be."
Mary Louise felt quite discouraged. With hesitation she asked:
"Do you suppose you could find him for me?"
"It is impossible."
"What am I to do, Mr. Conant?"
"I advise you to go back to your school."
"Can't I stay here, with you?"
He stared at her with his round eyes, playing with his locket.
"I haven't the money for the return trip," she went on falteringly. "I had to sell some of my jewelry to get here. I won't be much trouble, if you will let me live with you until I can find Gran'pa Jim."
Mr. Conant still stared.