This is the letter.
Dear Bertram:
Season of the Gold King opens at Jersey City on the seventh of September. As we shall have two new actors I shall call rehearsals for the Tuesday previous. Please report at Middleton Agency in New York on the first.
John Mordaunt, Manager.
P. S.—Ralph Clinton has recovered from his sickness, and will be ready to resume his part.
"That settles it!" said Jed soberly, as he handed back the letter. "That opening is closed to me."
"I am awfully sorry, Jed," returned Bertram in a tone of sympathy. "Perhaps if you enroll your name at the agency you can get a chance in some other play. I will speak a good word for you, and so I am sure will Mordaunt."
Jed shook his head.
"I don't think my chance would be very good," he said, "as I have had so little experience. Besides, it is three weeks from now. I must try to get work before then."
"Stay here, Jed. I will pay your expenses."
"Thank you, Mr. Bertram, but I have more than money enough for that, and you will need all yours. It will be better for me to leave Sea Spray, and go out in the world in search of work."
"I hate to have you go, Jed. I shall feel lonesome."