to perform. One of our supers had been footman in the family of a
well-known marquis, and from him I picked up a good deal of useful
information. Then, whenever I have been out to a swell dinner of any
kind, I have always kept my eye on the fellows who waited at table. So
what with one thing and what with another, I don't think I shall make
any very terrible blunders."

"I hope not, or else Mr. Cleon will give you your _congé_, and that will
spoil everything. Further, as regards the mulatto, I have a word or two
to say to you. It is quite evident to me that he is the presiding genius
at Bon Repos. If you wish to retain your situation you must pay court to
him far more than to M. Platzoff, with whom, indeed, it is doubtful
whether you will ever come into personal contact. You must therefore, my
dear boy, swallow your pride for the time being, and take care to let
the mulatto see that you regard him as a patron to whose kindness you
hold yourself deeply indebted."

"All that I can do, and more, to serve my own ends," answered the son.
"Your words are words of wisdom, and shall live in my memory."

Mr. Madgin stopped with his son till summoned by the whistle of the last
steamer. The two bade each other an affectionate farewell. When next
they met it would be as strangers.

Mr. Cleon and the landlord were enjoying the cool of the evening and
their cigars outside the house as Mr. Deedes walked up to The Jolly
Fishers. He stopped for a moment to speak to them.

"I had a note this morning from my friend Mr. Madgin, of Deepley Walls,"
he said, "in which that gentleman informs me that the young man, James