"Perhaps you can suggest some one?" said the broker, eying Fred attentively.
Fred shook his head.
"I have too few acquaintances to think of anyone who would be fit," he answered.
"Would you undertake it yourself?" asked Mr. Wainwright.
"I?" stammered Fred in genuine surprise.
"Yes."
"But don't you think I am too young?"
"Perhaps your youth may be a recommendation."
"I don't see how, sir."
"By drawing away suspicion from you. Should I send a man, the appearance of a stranger in a small place like St. Victor—I think it has little more than a thousand inhabitants—would very likely excite the suspicions of this Bowman, and so defeat the chances of success."