There was evidently a powerful struggle going on in the mind of the drunkard. This lasted only for a moment or two, when he said, loudly, and emphatically—
"No!"
And instantly broke from his old boon companion, and hurried on his way.
A loud laugh followed him, but he heeded it not. Ten minutes' walk brought him to the store of a respectable tradesman.
"Is Mr. R—in?" he asked, as he entered.
"Back at the desk," was the answer of a clerk.
And Jarvis walked back with a resolute air.
"Mr. R—, I want to sign the pledge!"
"You, Jarvis?" Mr. R—said, in tones of gratified surprise.
"Yes, me, Mr. R—. It's almost a hopeless case; but here goes to do my best."