"Oh, that's it; well, all right. But, Fred, I have been hearing good reports of you," the doctor continued.
"I am glad to know that, and I hope I merit them," replied Fred modestly.
"I think there is no doubt of it."
"It is refreshing to hear you say so after knowing all the bad reports that have been circulated against me during the last few weeks."
"Never mind, my boy; you have stood the fire nobly, and are surely winning the fight."
Fred's heart leaped with joy at these reassuring words from the doctor.
"Do you think so?" he said, at length.
"There is very little doubt of it, and I think I have a surprise for you," taking from his pocket the paper Nellie had found and placing it in Fred's hands.
Our young hero quickly ran his eye over it, and was amazed at its contents. It read thus:
Mapleton, November 17th, 187—.