“Read it, Mr Chairman,” repeated Mr Bickers excitedly.
Mr Roe accordingly read, in a voice which betrayed some emotion:—
“‘Sir,— I’m a cad, and a liar and a thief. Don’t believe a word I say. You can tell anyone you like; most of them know already.
“‘Yours truly,
“‘Jerry Sneak.’”
The effect of the letter may be more easily imagined than expressed. The audience received it first with astonishment, then with consternation, and finally, as the light dawned in on their minds, with laughter. Railsford alone looked serious and bewildered.
As for Mr Bickers, his face turned white, and he looked for a moment as if he would spring at Mr Roe’s throat. He snatched the letter from the chairman’s hand and looked at it, and then stared round him, on the amused faces of his colleagues.
“You have been hoaxed, I fear,” said Mr Roe.
Mr Bickers said nothing, but pointed to the parcel.
“Am I to open it?” asked the chairman.