I gave him my hearty thanks for the unlooked-for favor.

“To tell you the truth,” he said, “it was the doing of the women folks.”

My heart gave a leap at the announcement, for it carried a great deal more with it than Doddridge Knapp knew.

“I am a thousand times obliged to you—and the ladies,” I said.

“Well, I wasn't unwilling,” he said indulgently. “In fact, I intended to do something handsome for you. But there's one condition I must make.”

I looked my inquiry.

“You must not speculate. You haven't got the head for it.”

“Thank you,” I said. “I'll keep out, except under your orders.”

“Right,” he said. “You've the best head for carrying out orders I ever found.”

The King of the Street waved me good night, and I went back to the parlor.