Clayton started back in surprise. "By Jove!" he exclaimed. "It is true." And Professor Porter and Mr. Philander pressed forward to add their thanks to Clayton's, and to voice their surprise and pleasure at seeing their jungle friend so far from his savage home. The party now entered the modest little hos- telry, where Clayton soon made arrangements for their entertainment. They were sitting in the little, stuffy parlor when the distant chugging of an approaching au- tomobile caught their attention. Mr. Philander, who was sitting near the win- dow, looked out as the machine drew in sight, finally stopping beside the other cars. "Bless me!" said Mr. Philander, a shade of annoyance in his tone. "It is Mr. Canler. I had hoped, er--I had thought or--er--how very happy we should be that he was not caught in the fire," he ended lamely. "Tut--tut! Mr. Philander," said Professor Porter. "Tut--tut! I have often admonished my pupils to count ten before speaking. Were I you, Mr. Philander, I should count at least a thousand, and then maintain a discreet silence." "Bless me, yes!" acquiesced Mr. Philander. "But who is the clerical appearing gentleman with him?" Jane Porter blanched. Clayton moved uneasily in his chair. Professor Porter removed his spectacles nerv- -380- |