ablish in New
York the house of Francis Prime and Company. I am to devote my energies,
first, to becoming abnormally rich; and after that simple result is
accomplished, to carry out the theories I have as to how one in that
position should live. Meanwhile, I am to pledge my word never to divulge
the circumstances of this interview, and on no pretence whatever to seek
to discover the name of the person to whom I owe my good fortune. Have I
omitted anything?"

"You have stated the case exactly."

"Humph! I should like to ask a single question. Is my benefactor a man
or a woman?"

"Another question like that would justify me in withdrawing the offer,"
answered Mr. Chelm with gravity. "My client wishes to have no identity
whatever. Come, sir, my time is precious. I await your decision."

"The proposal is so sudden and unexpected. To ascend in a twinkling from
the depths of despair to the summit of hope, leaves one a trifle
bewildered. But you are right. I have no claim on your time. You want an
answer."

He laughed again in a nervous manner, and stroked Ike.

"I do not wish to hurry you unduly. I have a letter to write, which will
take me a few minutes. Think the matter over until I have finished."

"Thank you. I will. But since I have imposed upon your good nature so
far, do me one more kindness, Mr. Chelm. What is your own opinion in
this matter? Do you advise me to accept?"

I listened eagerly for his reply. It was in his power to spoil all.

"Really, I feel embarrassed how to answer. As I have already implied to
you, the proposition strikes me, as a lawyer, as being the most
preposterous piece of extravagance I ever heard suggested. I will tell
you frankly that I tried my utmost to dissuade my client from making it.
It is thoroughly unbusiness-like and absurd. That is my view of the
matter from a professional standpoint."

"I see," said Mr. Prime.

"But," continued Mr. Chelm,--and here he stopped and gave an amused
chuckle,--"it is a rare chance for a young man, a rare chance. My client
will never mind the loss of the money, and would feel genuine
disappointment, I know, if you were to decline. This being the case, and
feeling as I do that you are in earnest in your desire to succeed
despite your aristocratic tendencies, I am tempted on the whole to urge
you to accept the good fortune which is thrust upon you. It is for my
client's sake as much as for your own that I advise this, for I can see
that she has