and Thistle, Blackstone Street," said Jack, and bowed himself
away.

The next day Jack and Bill were again seated together in a small room
at the Dog and Thistle, waiting the result of the obliging operations
of the former. In a few moments a waiter brought in a note,
superscribed John Withers, Esq. Jack tore it open, and read as
follows:--

"Sir,--In answer to your application yesterday, I am sorry
to return you an unfavorable reply; but the chirography of
the person you recommended, to say nothing of other
considerations, unfits him for the vacancy in question.
Having made inquiries with regard to yourself, and finding
that you are in circumstances which might render employment
acceptable, while your conduct proves that you have
sincerely repented of the follies of your early years, I
have concluded to request your acceptance of the office
yourself. If you accept the offer, please report yourself
to-morrow.

"Yours, respectfully,
---- ----,
"Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts."

"You're an impostor!" shouted Bliffins. "Is this your friendship?"

"I can't help it," said Jack, ruefully. "I'm innocent--I did the best
I could for you."

"How did he know any thing about my penmanship?"

"I showed him this note," said the unhappy Jack, producing the
document.

"That note? You've ruined me! Do you know what it was about?"

"I'd forgotten."

"Why, it was all about horseracing, pugilism, and cock fighting, you
jackass!"

"Letter for Mr. Bliffins!" said the waiter, entering with another
epistle. Bliffins read it aloud.

"Mr. William Bliffins.

"Sir: In answer to application of your friend, yesterday,
for daughter's hand, have to reply for daughter, and say
that the honor is respectfully declined. Had you obtained
the office you applied for, might have treated with you.
Daughter requests me to say that she could not have done so
in any case.

"Your ob't servant,
J. TREVOR."

"P.S. Please hand the enclosed to Mr. Withers."

The "enclosed" was an invitation to a grand ball given by the Trevors
on the ensuing night.

After overwhelming his friend with anathemas, Bliffins rushed wildly
from the Dog and Thistle, and enlisted in the second dragoons.

Jack Withers, who had never before looked out for number one, now
became so "obliging" as to take care of that neglected personage. He
became a praisewor