Page:Maud Howe - Atlanta in the South.djvu/287

. As for me, I am a physician, and it is my duty to go where I am needed. Come, my child, give it up. Believe me, it is better for you."

She looked at him, terrified at the thought of leaving him, and shook her head.

"No, I have decided."

Rondelet saw that it was useless to attempt to dissuade her, and after giving Hero orders to attend to the baggage, stepped to the ticket-office.

"Three tickets for Thebes."

"Return?"

"No,—it 's hardly necessary; they might never be wanted."

The man laughed at the grim jest and handed the tickets to Philip. At this moment the lounger, who had to all appearance never removed his eyes from the table of trains he was studying, greeted Philip.

"Morning, Doctor."

"Ah, Dryer, is that you?"

"Yes, sir. I am here," he said, lowering his voice, "on the lookout for certain persons whom the authorities prefer to keep in New Orleans."

"You are still on the force then?" said Philip indifferently. He had recognized in Dryer an old acquaintance and a member of the detective force.

"Yes, sir; and I beg your pardon for asking