The next morning Basil said to the editor, "I fear I am about to inflict a disappointment upon you."
"Wants a rise of salary," thought the editor. "All right; he shall have it." Aloud he said, "Go ahead."
"I wish you to release me from a promise."
"What promise?"
"When we made the engagement it was understood that I should not leave you without a month's notice."
"That was so," said the editor drily; and thought, "He's going to put the screw upon me that way. I am ready for him; I'll give him all he asks."
"I wish to leave without notice." The editor was silent, and Basil continued: "I am under great obligations to you; I have been very happy in your service, and I have done my best to please you."
"You have pleased me thoroughly; I hope I have said nothing to give you a different impression."
"Indeed you have not; no man could have acted fairer by me than you have done."
"Soft soap," thought the editor. "Have I been mistaken in him?" Aloud: "Well, then, I am sure you will act fairly by me. I cannot release you."