“As I told you, I have been hunting for you for a month, but could find no trace of your whereabouts. All letters addressed to you were returned. Where in the world did you stop?”
“At a place where postmen never come,” replied Norman, with a faint smile. “But what has happened—why should you wish to see me so particularly? To speak frankly, I know that Professor Blackwell expressed a wish that I should keep away.”
“I must remind you, Redfern, that the wishes of President Blackwell are not those of President Mosley.”
“Good for you,” put in Joe Preston.
“What does all this rigmarole mean?” demanded Colonel Ellison, looking from one to the other, in surprise.
“Simply this: by a bit of detective work, an unfortunate situation has been cleared up—the name of a certain person entirely freed from blame, and——”
“What is that?” cried Redfern, his voice trembling with excitement and hope. “You mean——”
“Just what I say. But, as it is a private matter, I would respectfully ask that these young gentlemen retire for a short time.”
“Not so far as I am concerned,” put in Redfern, with a flush. “I have nothing to conceal; speak freely.”
“Something great coming, I’m sure,” said George, with interest.