The young men left the room hastily. Scarcely had they departed,
ere I saw the same gentleman come in, whose anxious face had, a
little while before, thrown its shadow over the apartment. He was
the father in search of his sons. Again he glanced around
nervously; and this time appeared to be disappointed. As he
entered, Slade went out.

"Have John and Wilson been here this evening?" he asked, coming up
to the bar and addressing Matthew.

"They are not here;" replied Matthew, evasively.

"But haven't they been here?"

"They may have been here; I only came in from my supper a little
while ago."

"I thought I saw them entering, only a moment or two ago."

"They're not here, sir." Matthew shook his head and spoke firmly.

"Where is Mr. Slade?"

"In the house, somewhere."

"I wish you would ask him to step here."

Matthew went out, but in a little while came back with word that
the landlord was not to be found.