"He loves you, madam, passionately, devotedly, enormously—Petrarch, Abelard, lukewarm lovers in comparison. Throws himself at your feet—save him!—marry him quick! or you'll lose him!—say yes."
"Sir, my father will communicate with you," said the lady, rising to terminate the interview.
"Dog 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."