Page:Barbour--Peggy in the rain.djvu/120

 "I wonder!" Gordon studied that question a moment. Finally, "Let us suppose that he is not averse to it, Hurd," he replied. "Then what?"

"Well, it makes a difference, Mr. Gordon, and that's why I made so bold as to ask," explained Hurd apologetically. "If a man doesn't want to be found it's pretty hard to find him in New York, sir. In a case of that sort I'd put the matter in the hands of the police."

Gordon shook his head. "A bit vulgar, eh, Hurd?"

"Perhaps, sir. Then there's private detectives, sir; very smart some of them, I've heard; and very discreet, sir."

"Well, I suppose it comes to that, Hurd," said Gordon with a sigh. "I like the idea of advertising, but when you don't know the la—the gentleman's name Look here, Hurd, I might as well tell you that it's a lady I have in mind."

"Thank you, sir. That ought to make it easier."

"Really? And why?

Hurd coughed discreetly behind his hand and hesitated a moment. "Begging your pardon, Mr. Gordon, but the ladies usually want to be found,