“Don't flatter me, Mr. Gussing.”
“I am in love,” went on the young man, flatly.
“Yes, sir.”
“I am quite sure the young lady loves me.”
“Then I suppose you are going to get married.”
“There is an obstacle in the way.”
“Oh!”
“Perhaps I had better tell you the whole story—if you'll listen to me,” went on the dude.
“Certainly I'll listen,” said Joe. “I've got a little time off.”
And then Felix Gussing told his tale of woe, as will be found in the next chapter.