“Professor Puffer?” said Cunningham inquiringly.
“I have that honor,” said Puffer. “I called about your advertisement for a traveling companion.”
“Do you know of any one whom you can recommend?”
“I would be glad to accept the position myself. What salary do you propose to give?”
“That will be a matter of negotiation after I have made my selection.”
“I only wanted to make sure that it would be worth my while to accept. As you may infer from my card I am a man of reputation,” and Professor Puffer swelled out his chest and assumed a look of dignity.
“I am glad to hear it. I consider it a compliment that a man of your standing should be willing to be my companion.”
“To tell the truth, Mr. Cunningham,” went on Puffer, “I was not sure till I saw you whether I should be willing, but now that I have seen you I have a strong desire to accompany you.”
“Appearances are deceitful, you know, professor.”
“I am willing to take the risk. How soon do you propose to start?”