“Did he? That circumstance may be used to advantage. We will not undeceive him. Let him think that you are a traveling agent, and he’ll tell no damaging tales.”
“Ah! you are inclined to befriend me, I see. How can I thank you?”
“Yes, I am inclined to befriend you, and, as for thanks, never mind them now. You are a stranger here, and in Dalton. These facts are fortunate. Will any one there be apt to conclude that you have come to me?”
“I think not. No one there knows enough about me to form such a conclusion.”
“Do not be too sure of that. It would be strange if something did not appear at the examination that would throw the scent this way.”
“Yes, I had forgotten about that. But I do not remember much about the testimony. I am rather stupid, I think.”
“Well, there is not much cause for immediate alarm on that score, I apprehend. It will take time for the Dalton authorities to communicate to the New York police what they know about you and your connections, and before such communication is had, I think we can find a safe hiding-place for you.”
“Where will it be?” asked Carlos.
“Oh, I don’t know yet. I believe,” musingly, “that I will consult Mishler.”
“He is your partner. Is he a safe man?”