He
received me very kindly. I have got track of Ida, though I have not
found her yet. I have learned as much as this, that this Mrs.
Hardwick--who is a double distilled she-rascal--probably has Ida in
her clutches, and has sent her on two occasions to my uncle's. I am
spending most of my time in the streets, keeping a good lookout for
her. If I do meet her, see if I don't get Ida away from her. But it
may take some time. Don't get discouraged, therefore, but wait
patiently. Whenever anything new turns up you will receive a line
from your dutiful son
"JACK."
In reply to this letter, or rather note, Jack received an intimation
that he was not to cease his efforts as long as a chance remained to
find Ida.
The very day after the reception of this letter, as Jack was
sauntering along the street, he suddenly perceived in front of him a
form which at once reminded him of Mrs. Hardwick. Full of hope that
this might be so, he bounded forward, and rapidly passed the
suspected person, turned suddenly round, and confronted Ida's nurse.
The recognition was mutual. Peg was taken aback by this unexpected
encounter.
"Her first impulse was to make off, but the young man's resolute
expression warned her that this would prove in vain.
"Mrs. Hardwick!" said Jack.
"You are right," said she, nodding, "and you, if I am not mistaken,
are John Crump, the son of my worthy friends in New York.
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