"It's the Barton station, sir. There's a telegram." I snatched the receiver spitefully, thinking it only the methodical Torrence confirming the appointment made by telephone. But the operator began reading:
"Springfield, Ohio, September 30, 1917.
"Cable from London agent says last forwarding address for Violet Dewing was hotel in Seattle. Please ask Harkaway & Stein and anybody else on Broadway who might know what companies are on coast or headed that way. I find no clew in theatrical papers and don't want to mess things by making inquiries direct. If party can be located, will start West immediately.
The thought of Searles was comforting, and I reproached myself for not having summoned him at the beginning of my perplexities. I immediately dictated this reply:
"Take first train East and come to me at Barton as quickly as possible. Hope to have news for you."
I then jotted down on a scratch pad this memorandum:
"The young woman representing herself as Mrs. Bashford and now established in my uncle's house is one or all of the following persons:
1. Uncle Bash's widow.
2. An impostor.