"Quite satisfactory," answered the jeweler. "I know Mr. Preston
personally, and as I am pressed for time, I will accept his name without
calling upon him. What is your name?"
"Paul Hoffman."
"I will note it down."
The gentleman from Syracuse drew out a memorandum book, in which he
entered Paul's name.
"When you see Mr. Preston, just mention my name; Felix Montgomery."
"I will do so."
"Say, if you please, that I would have called upon him, but, coming to
the city strictly on business, was too hurried to do so."
This also Paul promised, and counted himself fortunate in falling in
with a friend, or, at all events, acquaintance of Mr. Preston, since he
was likely to make twenty-five dollars more than he would otherwise have
done.
When he got out of the car at the Astor House, the stranger said:
"It will be half an hour before I can reach Lovejoy's, as I have a
business call to make first. Can you call there, say, in three-quarters
of an hour?"
"Yes, sir."
"Very well, then, I will expect you. Inquire for me at the desk, and ask
the servant to conduct you to my room--you remember my name?"
"Yes, sir--Mr. Felix Montgomery."
"Quite right. Good-by, then, till we meet."
Mr. Felix Montgomery went into the Astor House, and remained about five
minutes. He then came out on the steps, and, looking about him to see
if Paul was anywhere near, descended the steps, and walked across to
Lovejoy's Hotel.
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