He was then hesitating between returning to his country by rail or embarking in one of the three steamers that were in port ready to sail for Marseilles.
"I believe that he has gone by railroad," said one of the clerks.
Another of the office force supported his companion's supposition with a positive affirmation in order to attract the attention of his chief.
He was sure of his departure by land.

He himself had helped him to calculate what the trip to Barcelona would cost him.
Ferragut did not wish to know more.

He must get away as soon as possible.

This inexplicable voyage of his son filled him with remorse and immeasurable alarm.

He wondered what could have occurred in his home....
The director of the offices pointed out to him a French steamer from Suez that was sailing that very afternoon to Marseilles, and took upon himself all the arrangements concerning his passage and recommendation to the captain.