gainst
Verty and Redbud's happiness. He would ride to Apple Orchard, and win
his rival's sweetheart's affections; then laugh "triumphantly with
glee." That is Mr. Jinks' idea.

Ralph thinks it not feasible, and suggests a total abandonment of
revengeful feelings toward Verty.

"Suppose I sent him a cartel, then," says Mr. Jinks, after a pause.

"A cartel?"

"Yes; something like this."

And taking a preparatory gulp of the rum, Mr. Jinks continues:

"Suppose I write these words to him: 'A. Jinks, Esq., presents his
compliments to ---- Verty, Esq., and requests to be informed at what
hour Mr. Verty will attend in front of Bousch's tavern, for the
purpose of having himself exterminated and killed? How would that do?"

Ralph chokes down a laugh, and, pretending to regard Mr. Jinks with
deep admiration, says:

"An excellent plan--very excellent."

"You think so?" says his companion, dubiously.

"Yes, yes; you should, however, be prepared for one thing."

"What is that?"

"Mr. Verty's reply."

"What would that be, sir? He is not a rash young man, I believe?"

"No--just the contrary. His reply would be courteous and cool."

"Ah?"

"He would write under your letter, demanding at what hour you should
kill him--'ten,' or 'twelve,' or 'four in the afternoon'--at which
time he would come and proceed to bloodshed."

"Bloodshed?"

"Yes; he's a real Indian devil, although he looks mild, my clear
fellow. If you are going to send the cartel, you might as well do so
at once."

"No--no--I will think of it," replies Mr. Jinks; "I will spare him a
little longer. There is no necessity for hurry. A plenty of time!"

And Mr. Jinks clears his throat, and for the present abandons thoughts
of revenge on Verty.

Ralph sees the change of sentiment, and laughs.

"Well," he says, "there is something else on your mind, Jinks, my boy;
what is it? No more revenge?"

"Yes!"

"Against whom, you epitome of Italian hatred."

Mr. Jinks frowns, and says:

"Against O'Brallaghan!"

"No!" cries Ralph.

"Yes, sir."

"I, myself, hate that man!"

"Then we can assist each other."

"Yes--yes."

"We can make it nice, and good, and fine," says Mr. Jinks, smacking
his lips over the rum, as if he was imbibing liquid vengeance, and was
pleased with the flavor.

"No!" cries Ralph again.

"Yes!" says Mr. Jinks.

"Revenge, nice and good?"

"Supreme!"

"How?"

"Listen!"

"Stop a moment, my dear fellow," said Ralph; "do