slighted by two chaps I liked so well. I determined to be revenged in
some playful way that would make us better friends, and as I walked
down-street next morning I hit out a scheme. They had been gone since
daybreak and I was on my way to see a client who kept a livery-stable.

Now, in college, where I had intended to leave all silly tricks behind
me, my most taking pranks had been played in female disguise; for at
twenty-four I was as beardless as a child.

My errand to the stableman was to collect some part of my fee in a suit
I had won for him. But I got not a cent, for as to cash his victory
had been a barren one. However, a part of his booty was an old coach
built when carriage people made long journeys in their own equipages.
This he would "keep on sale for me free of charge," etc.

"Which means you'll never sell it," I said.

Oh, he could sell it if any man could!

I smiled. Could he lend me, I asked, for half a day or so, a good span
of horses? He could.

"Then hitch up the coach and let me try it."

He bristled: "What are you going to find out by 'trying' it? What
d'you 'llow it'll do? Blow up? Who'll drive it? _I_ can't spare any
one."

I was glad. Any man of his would know me, and my scheme called for a
stranger to both me and the coach. I must find such a person.