THE AUTHOR OF "TRIXIE"
31
a pen-name or under your own, how, exactly, do you propose to go to work?"
"I propose," said the Archdeacon, "to publish it under yours."
Dunkle paled. "My dear sir," he observed, "there is surely a limit to what one is required to accept from one's host, even in the way of mistaken humour. Shall we not both forget what you have just said? Shall we not join the ladies?" He made as if to rise.
"Keep your seat, Dunkle," said the Archdeacon. "Believe me, I never was less inclined to be humorous. This is a business proposal that I'm making to you, my dear boy. I am asking you to do something for me. In return I am prepared to make it worth your while. I fancy that fifty pounds"
Dunkle rose. "My poor gentleman,"
