"At last, the wife contracted the plague and died very suddenly,
and Carringford was left alone with the baby on his hands. It was
at this time that he dropped completely out of sight, and
Pettingill never heard from him again. He thinks, however, from
very substantial rumor, that Carringford went back to England,
taking the child with him. He didn't go to his own folks, though,
that's certain; for Pettingill has heard from them occasionally,
and they never mention him. There was another rumor afloat about
him for a time, that he had taken to earning his living by singing
at cheap concerts under an assumed name. All of which might be
entirely likely. But what became of the child, Pettingill never
knew--nor any one else, I'm afraid. Well, that's all I've
ascertained up to date, but I'm still on the track, and if I hear
any further news, I'll let you know at once."