into" blacking together. He knew of a
place, he said, where he could get it for "next to nothing;" and, as he
then pertinently observed, I must be aware that it might be disposed of
in New York at more than cent, per cent, profit. So, why should we not
embark in it? If we did, Brown of Philadelphia--only he was opposed to
betting, on moral principle--was prepared to wager a trifle that we
would soon have more "greenbacks" than we should know what to do with!

He had an office already, had my benevolent friend,--"located" in a
first-rate part of Broadway. All I should have to do, he explained,
would be to put a small sum into the concern--so as to be independent,
as it were, and not merely accepting "a big thing" at his hands--and, my
fortune was made. If I would contribute, say, five hundred dollars--"a
mere song"--we might go joint shares in what would turn out to be a most
remarkably go-a-head enterprise; yes, sir!

Strange! But, the amount he mentioned was the exact sum, in American
exchange, of my capital--about which, you know, I had previously spoken
to him in a friendly and communicative way. It _was_ odd, my just
having sufficient, wasn't it?--Yet, how lucky, to be sure! And then,
there was no necessity for my being acquainted with the business:--he
would manage that. My duty would be to take in money--exactly what I
liked! That's what took my fancy so amazingly--"tickled" me, as Artemus
Ward would have expressed it--so I repeat it!

Brown of Philadelphia was the soul of honour, as well as distinguished
for his smartness and benevolence. He did not want to impose on _me_,
bless you!

No; on the contrary, he gave me a reference to a large bank "down town,"
and also to a notorious shoddy celebrity who lived "up" town,--to the
former of which I went, making inquiries as to his stability.
Certainly, they knew Mr Brown of Philadelphia. Had a large balance at
present in their hands. As far as they were aware--must be reticent in
commercial matters, you know--perfectly responsible party. Could I have
taken any further precaution? I think not, after this statement.

Quite satisfactory, wasn't it?

I did not go to shoddy character in Fifth Avenue, because it was a
horribly long pull there in the street "cars:"--thought bank reference
sufficient, wouldn't you?

Perfectly satisfactory, I thought; and told Brown of Philadelphia so at
our next meeting, when I lunched with him by appointment.

We next