Flash could see only one solution, and that, not to his liking. Still thinking the matter over, he arose, washed, and scribbled a hasty letter to his mother.
Deciding not to mail it in the hotel box, he walked to the post office. As a matter of routine, he asked if any mail had arrived for him, general delivery.
Thumbing through a thick stack of mail, the post master proffered a thin envelope bearing the name of the Brandale Ledger.
As Flash eagerly opened the letter, a crisp new bill fluttered to the floor. He picked it up and saw that it represented twenty dollars. The letter was from City Editor, Riley. Scattered phrases seized his eye:
“... Your train wreck pictures scooped the East.... shots of the Indianapolis races best we’ve run in years.... Congratulations on the excellent work! Accept this twenty dollars as a bonus, and have a good time on your vacation.”
Flash pocketed the money and read the letter twice. At least Riley appreciated his work even if George Doyle didn’t! He was glad to know that all his pictures had turned out well. A big load had been lifted from his mind.
Leaving the post office, Flash glanced at his watch. Two hours had elapsed since he had left the undeveloped camera films at Mr. Dee’s photographic studio. He wandered slowly about for a half hour longer and then dropped into the establishment.
“Your pictures are ready,” the photographer said, offering him the packet. “However, I’m afraid you’ll not be very well pleased. Only two of the prints came out well.”
“I didn’t expect much from them,” Flash replied. “I hope you printed them all.”
“Yes, I did.”