a letter of introduction from me. He wants to learn the moving
picture business, and as he comes well recommended, and as both
Mr. Ringold and I are under obligations to people he represents,
we feel that we must grant his request.

"Of course if you feel that you can't stand him, after you see
him, and if you don't want to take him with you--yes, even if you
don't want to go to Panama at all, don't hesitate to say so. But I
would like very much to have you. Someone must go, for the films
from down there will be particularly valuable at this time, in
view of the coming opening of the Canal for the passage of
vessels. So if you don't want to go, someone else representing us
will have to make the trip.

"Now think the matter over well before you decide. I think you
will find Mr. Alcando a pleasant companion. He struck me as being
a gentleman, though his views on some things are the views of a
foreigner. But that does not matter.

"Of course, as usual, we will pay you boys well, and meet all
expenses. It is too bad to break in on your vacation again, as we
did to get the flood pictures, but the expected big slide, like
the flood, won't wait, and won't last very long. You have to be
'Johnnie on the Spot' to get the views. I will await your answer."




CHAPTER VI