"Do it? Now what?"

"Listen to this." He cleared his throat, sniffed of the faintly
scented paper and cleared his throat again. He looked up at me
drolly.

"Well?" said I, impatiently. I was as eager to hear it as he had been
to read it. I believed that the mystery was about to be solved.

"'James Osborne, Sir: I have been thinking the matter over seriously,
and have come to the conclusion that there may have been a mistake.
Undoubtedly my groom was primarily to blame. I have discharged him
for neglecting his post of duty. I distinctly recall the manner in
which you handled the horses last night. It may be possible that they
ran away with you. However that may be, I find myself in need of a
groom. Your horsemanship saved us from a serious accident. If you
will promise to let whisky alone, besides bringing me a
recommendation, and are without engagement, call at the inclosed
address this afternoon at three o'clock. I should be willing to pay
as much as forty dollars a month. You would be expected to accompany
me on my morning rides.'"

"She must have paid the fine," said I. "Well, it beats anything I
ever heard of. Had you arrested, and now wants to employ you! What
name did you say?" I asked carelessly.

"I didn't say any name, Chuck,"--smiling. "And I'm not going to give
any, you old duffer."

"And why not?"