“That cannot concern you. If you are really ready to fight any one, then the particular name can be of no importance. I have my reasons for withholding it.”
“Very good, ma’am.”
“You have been only a few weeks out of training. How long would it take you to get back to your best?”
“Three weeks or a month.”
“Well, then, I will pay your training expenses and two pounds a week over. Here are five pounds as a guarantee. You will fight when I consider that you are ready, and that the circumstances are favourable. If you win your fight, you shall have fifty pounds. Are you satisfied with the terms?”
“Very handsome, ma’am, I’m sure.”
“And remember, Mr. Spring, I choose you, not because you are the best man—for there are two opinions about that—but because I am given to understand that you are a decent man whom I can trust. The terms of this match are to be secret.”
“I understand that. I’ll say nothing.”
“It is a private match. Nothing more. You will begin your training tomorrow.”
“Very good, ma’am.”