“United States of America. Department of State.
“To all whom these presents may concern, Greeting. I, the undersigned, Secretary of State, of the United States of America, hereby request all whom it may concern to permit—Stephen Loring—a citizen of the United States, safely and freely to pass, and in case of need to give him all lawful aid and protection.”
“It must be a passport,” he thought. “First one I ever seed, though. I wonder who might Stephen Loring be.”
His eye fell upon the appended description:
- “Age, 23 yrs., 4 mos.
- Stature, 6 ft. 1.
- Forehead, Broad.
- Eyes, Brown.
- Nose, Irregular.
- Mouth, Wide.
- Chin, Medium.
- Hair, Black.
- Complexion, Ruddy.
- Face, Square.”
He looked about at the men in the car until his eye fell on Stephen.
“That’s him, all right,” he thought. “I should say it would be sort of inconvenient to have such a good description to fill!”
He went to Stephen and touched him on the shoulder. “Hey, stranger, I reckon this belongs to you.”
Loring, surprised, took the proffered paper. Then he felt in the pocket of his coat.