"The one that gave me this book told me so."
"There are plenty of padlocked books in the world," I said jauntily. "At least there must be more than one. How long ago did it happen?"
"Not very long ago, I think; for the book was clean."
"Give it to me," I said, as if I cursed him.
"It's a sacred book," he answered, hesitating.
"Maybe it's sacred. Let me see."
"There may be holy mysteries in it, to be read only of him who has the key."
"I have a key!"
I took it out of the snuffbox. Johnny Appleseed fixed his rapt eyes on the little object in my fingers.
"Mebby you are the one appointed to open and read what is sealed!"