There were exclamations of surprise and gratification from all present, save Rayel, who remained silent, while a faint smile stole over his face. “I knew they would find him out,” said he. “I hear that you are a mind-reader, sir,” said Mr. Murmurtot, again addressing my cousin. “And you are a detective, I believe, and not a reporter,” said Rayel. “It is good that we understand each other.” Mr. Murmurtot started with surprise at the remark. “I do not know how fully you may be acquainted with my secret,” said he, “but permit me to assure you that I am here on a friendly mission. “I have no doubt of that,” said my cousin. “Let me proceed directly to the object of my visit, then, which is to learn how soon you expect to return to England.” “By Saturday, if possible,” I replied. “That is good,” said he, turning toward me. “The sooner the better. In the meantime it will be my duty to keep a sharp eye upon you; I have been near you all day. You need not feel any alarm--only do not be surprised if you meet me often. I am responsible for your safety, that is all.” “For whom are you acting?” I asked. “My dear sir,” said he, rising to go, “men in my line of business must not talk too much. Good night.” After he had gone we asked Rayel to tell us more about this mysterious visitor, but he was unable to do so. When we started away Hester put on her wraps and walked with us to the cab. As we alighted at our own door I saw a man standing by the street lamp on the corner, some distance away, whom I recognized as Mr. Murmurtot. I found a letter from Mr. Earl awaiting me at home, in which he urged us to hasten back to England as soon as possible after my recovery. “You and Rayel,” he said, “will, I trust, make your home at my house.” Next day we began our preparations for the voyage. CHAPTER XIII It was on a bleak and windy night in December that we were driven through a pelting rain to one of the docks on the North River, which our steamer was to leave at high tide in the early morning. When we alighted Mr. Murmurtot stood shivering in a greatcoat and muffler close by the passengers' entrance. “This is a good place for a warm greeting,” said he, taking Hester's hand. “I've stood here so long that my teeth are chattering from the cold.” “Won't you come aboard with us?” I asked. “Not yet,” he replied; “but I expect to sail with you in the morning.” “'Sa rough night, sir,” said the porter who carried our luggage, “but we'll find it a bit rougher outside, I'm feered, afore anither night.”