“Anything further, Monsieur Jupille?”
“Something to ask of you—to do me a kindness, or, rather, an honor.”
“Let’s hear what it is.”
“This weather, Monsieur Mouillard, is very good for fishing, though rather warm.”
“Rather warm, Monsieur Jupille!”
“It is not too warm. It was much hotter than this in 1844, yet the fish bit, I can tell you! Will you join us next Sunday in a fishing expedition? I say ‘us,’ because one of your friends is coming, a great amateur of the rod who honors me with his friendship, too.”
“Who is he?”
“A secret, Monsieur Mouillard, a little secret. You will be surprised. It is settled then—next Sunday?”
“Where shall I meet you?”
“Hush, the office-boy is listening. That boy is too sharp; I’ll tell you some other time.”