what will be the odds.

Mr Salteena heaved a sigh. I was thinking of this world he said.

Oh I see said the Earl but my own idear is that these things are as
piffle before the wind.

Not being an earl I cant say answered our hero but may I beg you to
read this letter my Lord. He produced Bernards note from his coat
tails. The Earl of Clincham took it in his long fingers. This is what
he read.

[Pg 55]
My dear Clincham

The bearer of this letter is an old friend of mine not quite the
right side of the blanket as they say in fact he is the son of a
first rate butcher but his mother was a decent family called
Hyssopps of the Glen so you see he is not so bad and is desireus of
being the correct article. Could you rub him up a bit in Socierty
ways. I dont know much details about him but no doubt he will
supply all you need. I am keeping well and hope you are. I must run
up to the Compartments one day and look you up.

Yours as ever your faithfull friend
Bernard Clark.

The Earl gave a slight cough and gazed at Mr Salteena thourghtfully.

Have you much money he asked and are you prepared to spend a good
deal.

Oh yes quite gasped Mr Salteena I have plenty in the bank and L10 in
ready gold in my purse.

[Pg 56]
You see these compartments are the haunts of the Aristockracy said the
earl and they are kept going by peaple who have got something funny in
their family and who want to be less mere if you can comprehend.

Indeed I can said Mr Salteena.

Personally I am a bit parshial to mere people said his Lordship but
the point is that we charge a goodly sum for our training here but
however if you cant pay you need not join.

I can and will proclaimed Mr Salteena and he placed a L10 note on the
desk. His Lordship slipped it in his trouser pocket. It will be L42
before I have done with you he said but you can pay me here and there
as convenient.

Oh thankyou cried Mr Salteena.

Not at all said the Earl and now to bissness. While here you will live
in compartments in the basement known as Lower Range. You will get
many hints from the Groom of the Chambers as to clothes and [Pg 57]
ettiquett to menials. You will mix with me for grammer and I might take
you out hunting or shooting sometimes to give you a few tips. Also I
have lots of ladies partys which you will attend occasionally.

Mr Salteenas e