"Any acquaintance of yours?" asked the clerk.
"No; I never heard the name."
"I think he wants you to play to-morrow evening. He lives in the next town, Carterville."
"Mr. Montgomery has been called East. I am afraid this will stop our entertainments."
"He did not ask for Mr. Montgomery, only for you."
Mr. Gunnison soon came in. He was a slender, dark complexioned man, with a pleasant face.
"I know you are Dean Dunham," he said, extending his hand, "for I heard you play last evening. Are you engaged for to-morrow?"
"No, sir."
"Then I should like to engage your services. An entertainment is to be given in our town hall for the benefit of our town library. For the most part local talent is employed. We are to have a short play, and a few songs. I, as manager, have thought it would help us if we could advertise you in connection with the home attractions."