Looking further Maurice discovered that over in one quarter there seemed to be a sort of enclosure, over which was the significant notice "P. O."
He could see that some one was behind the gaudy brass grillwork; and believing that this was likely to be the proprietor, engaged in entering upon his books that late delivery of cordwood to the steamboat, the boy moved that way.
As he stood there in front of the little opening the man beyond looked up. He seemed surprised to see a stranger.
"Evenin', sah. What can I do foh you?" he asked politely, upon discovering that it was a white person.
"Is this Mr. Stallings?" asked Maurice.
"Yes, sah, that is my name," replied the other, curiously.
"I have just come off a shanty-boat that is tied up here. I have a chum with me on the boat. We want to find a man by the name of George Stormways. Can you tell me if he happens to live near by?"
"Huh!"
The owner of the woodyard and country store bent forward still more and took a closer look at the speaker. It seemed to Maurice as though Mr. Stallings had suddenly become more deeply interested in the personality of the stranger, though he could not give even a guess just why that should be so.
"George Stormways," repeated Maurice, slowly and deliberately, as though he wanted the other to fully understand.