"Way I've got—few leading points all you want—time precious—money (old saw)—Bliffins—clerkship—don't you take?"
"I think I recollect the name, now. But I must inquire into the character of the applicant. How did he lose his fortune?"
"Unbounded benevolence—heart like an ox—bigger—endorsing notes for friends—founding hospitals for indigent Africans—temperance movement—philanthropy expensive—but you know all that."
"The office in question requires a good penman. Can your friend write well?"
"Splendid hand—copperplate—currente calamo—shine in your eyes."
"Have you a specimen of his penmanship?"
"Cords at home—some in pocket. Here you have it! no, that's my washerwoman's bill. Ah, here it is!" and Jack pulled out a crumpled note, and placed it before the governor.
The governor scanned the document curiously, and with great difficulty deciphered the following words, which he read silently:—
"Dear Jack,—Fashion has been beaten, and I lost on the mare. I shall back Tom Hyer to the extent of my pile. He is training finely. Bricks has a couple of Santa Anna's game cocks for me, on board the Raritan, at Lewis's wharf. Can you run down and get 'em from the steward? Yrs, &c."
The governor smiled as he handed back the note, but made no remark.