"Yes, listen to this," and Douglas drew forth the letter from his pocket and began to read:
"JOHN HANDYMAN,
"Sir:—You have made yourself very objectionable in this place, so your presence is not wanted here any longer. I, therefore, give you notice to quit at once. This is a fair warning, and, unless you are altogether a fool, you will heed it.
"SIMON STUBBLES."
It took Jake a few seconds to grasp the full purport of these words. When he did at last comprehend their meaning, his face darkened and he stepped over to where Douglas was standing.
"Did Si Stubbles write them words?" he demanded.
"Yes, look for yourself," and Douglas handed him the letter.
Slowly and with difficulty Jake read it through. Douglas watched him with considerable interest.
"Well, what do you think of it?" he asked. "Are you not afraid of losing your help?"
"Damn Si Stubbles!" Jake roared. It was only when wrought up to the highest pitch of fury that Jake swore, and then it was well for his enemies to beware of him. "No, I'm not afraid of losin' ye, an' Si Stubbles ain't the man wot kin drive ye away, either. You jist stay where ye are."