“It was no small matter, but the initial expense and the first year’s outlay were subscribed in ten minutes. Betsey set the ball rolling with an offer of ten thousand dollars, and then it was like shaking ripe apples off a tree.
“‘Who is to be the manager?’ Delance wanted to know. ‘It’s a big job.’
“‘I propose that we try Harry,’ I said; ‘in my opinion it will interest him. I’ve had him in training for a year or so, and he’s about ready for big work.’
“‘I don’t believe Harry can do it,’ his father declared.
“‘I should think it might not be to his taste,’ said Bill Warburton.
“‘But I have later and better information than the rest of you,’ I said. ‘If you will leave the matter in my hands you may hold me responsible for the results.’
“They gave me the white card. I could do as I liked. The fact is, I had just had a letter from Harry which filled me with new hope. I have it here.”
The Honorable Socrates Potter took the letter from his pocket and said: