“Gentlemen, please let’s start fair. We can’t do a thing like this. I was here first, but I’m willing to meet you any reasonable way, and I propose to shake for the first deal.” Before either of the others could reply C. B. said quietly—
“Are all you gentlemen reporters?”
“Me every time,” answered the reporter gaily, but the other two expressed their feelings at the question by a very decided negative.
“Then,” went on C. B., “I think if this gentleman,” nodding to the reporter, “will have a moment’s patience, I can promise him I will not keep him waiting long. What do you wish with me, sir?” to the parson. That gentleman said immediately—
“Oh, my committee have authorized me to invite you to preach at our church in —— Street to-night and incidentally tell the story of your late experiences. They are prepared to meet your views as to the honorarium, within limits, of course.”
“Thank you very much,” replied C. B. “No. And you?” turning to the gross man.
“Wall, I guess I’m the representative of the Mammoth Vaudeville Syndicate of the United States, and I’m prepared to book you for a hundred nights at $100 a night to reel off that yarn of yours on the stage an’——”
“Thank you,” interrupted C. B. “No.”
“And now,” turning to the reporter, and absolutely ignoring the other two. “I am at your service.”
The reporter gave a wicked little snigger at the two discomfited competitors and plunged into his business.