It is my boast that I leave no duty unfulfilled." Mr.Watson walked back to the telegraph office and found an answer to his message.

The American consul was ill and had gone to Naples for treatment.

When he returned, his clerk stated, the matter of the disappearance of John Merrick would immediately be investigated.
Feeling extremely helpless and more fearful for his friend than before, the lawyer returned to the hotel for a conference with the nieces.
"How much of a reward shall I offer ?" he asked.

"That seems to be the only thing that can be depended upon to secure results." "Give them a million--Uncle John won't mind," cried Patsy, earnestly.
"Don't give them a penny, sir," said Beth.

"If they are holding him for a ransom Uncle is in no personal danger, and we have no right to assist in robbing him." "But you don't understand, my dear," asserted the lawyer.