“I am afraid,” continued Mr. Montgomery, “I must wait and send you the money in a letter from Hayfield Centre.”
“I'd rather have it now,” said Ephraim.
“I am sorry to disappoint you,” said the adventurer smoothly; “but after all you will only have a day or two to wait. To make up to you for the delay I have decided to send you ten dollars instead of five. Finding I could not change my bill, I wrote a note for the amount, which I will hand you.”
Ephraim received the paper, which the other handed him, and read as follows:
NEW YORK, Sept 15, 18—.
Three days from date I promise to pay Mr. Ephraim Young ten dollars.
JOTHAM BARNES, of Hayfield Centre.
“How will that do?” asked the adventurer. “By waiting three days you double your money.”
“You'll be sure to send it,” said Ephraim, doubtfully.
“My young friend, I hope you do not doubt me,” said the Rev. Mr. Barnes, impressively.