"
"Oh, Sebastian is going by this steamer?" I murmured, looking up.
The sandy-haired clerk hummed and hesitated. "Well, I believe he's
going, sir," he answered at last; "but it's a bit uncertain. He's a
fidgety man, the Professor. He came down here this morning and asked
to see the list, the same as you have done. Then he engaged a berth
provisionally--'mind, provisionally,' he said--that's why his name
is only put in on the list in pencil. I take it he's waiting to know
whether a party of friends he wishes to meet are going also."
"Or wishes to avoid," I thought to myself, inwardly; but I did not say
so. I asked instead, "Is he coming again?"
"Yes, I think so: at 5.30."
"And she sails at seven?"
"At seven, punctually. Passengers must be aboard by half-past six at
latest."
"Very good," I answered, making up my mind promptly. "I only called to
know the Professor's movements. Don't mention to him that I came. I may
look in again myself an hour or two later."
"You don't want a passage, sir? You may be the friend he's expecting."
"No, I don't want a passage--not at present certainly." Then I ventured
on a bold stroke.
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