which I need be ashamed;"--and unconsciously his figure became more
erect.

"Is your name Osborne?"

"No, Madam, it is not. For my family's sake, I have tried to forget
my own name." (I'll wager the rascal never felt a qualm in the region
of his conscience.)

It was this truth which was not truth that won his battle.

"You were doubtless discharged last night?"

"I did not return to ascertain, Madam. I merely sent for my
belongings."

"You have recommendations?"--presently.

"I have no recommendations whatever, Madam. If you employ me, it must
be done on your own responsibility and trust in human nature. I can
only say, Madam, that I am honest, that I am willing, that I possess
a thorough knowledge of horse-flesh."

"It is very unusual," she said, searching him to the very heart with
her deep blue eyes. "For all I know you may be the greatest rascal,
or you may be the honestest man, in the world." His smile was so
frank and engaging that she was forced to smile herself. But she
thought of something, and frowned. "If you have told me the truth, so
much the better; for I can easily verify all you have told me. I will
give you a week's trial. After all,"--indifferently--"what I desire