"Mr. Nixon,
"I need not say that I was surprised to receive your letter. I supposed you dead long ago. I am glad to hear that you are alive, and are in such a creditable state of mind. When you appropriated our funds, you injured yourself more than you did us. I am sure you have regretted it many times.
"I cannot go out to see you as I would if I were younger and stronger, for I am getting to be an old man, and I am feeble, besides being a victim of rheumatism. As to sending a messenger, I was at first greatly in doubt whom I could select. Finally I fixed upon Gerald Lane, whose late father I knew well. He is only a boy, but he possesses as much good judgment as many men ten years older. Besides, he is thoroughly honest and reliable. I place him at your service, with full power to act for me, and I will pay his expenses. When you know him as well as I do, you will learn to trust him as much as I do.
"I remain, with sincere good wishes,
"Your old friend,
"John Nugent."
Gerald was gratified in reading the terms used in speaking of him.
Mr. Nixon listened intently.
"That is a good letter, and gives me great pleasure!" he said. "I am glad that John Nugent forgives me the injury I did him."
"Yes, he told me that he freely forgave you."