"No idea at all."

"If it would relieve you, sir, I will go in your place," said John,
whose curiosity was aroused.

"Thank you, John, but this is evidently a personal matter. I shall go
down there to-morrow at the appointed time."

John was far from suspecting that the communication related to Frank,
though he had heard the day previous from Nathan Graves of the boy's
escape. He had been very much annoyed, and had given his agent a severe
scolding, with imperative orders to recapture the boy, if possible.

It was not without a feeling of curiosity that Mr. Wharton entered the
law office of Mr. Hall. He announced himself and was cordially welcomed.

"You have a communication to make to me," said Mr. Wharton.

"I have."

"Tell me all without delay."

"I will, sir. This is the communication I desire to make."

The story of John Wade's treachery was told, and the means by which
he had imposed upon his uncle, but the lawyer carefully abstained from
identifying the lost grandson with Frank Fowler.

When the story was concluded, Mr. Wharton said: