"'Posted around town,' said he.
"I told him I was a new-comer.
"'Know short-hand?'
"'No, sir.'
"'What line are you strongest in?'
"What line?' said I, not exactly understanding.
"'Yes, what line? Speeches, fancy-work, police, sensations, picking up items around town—or what?'
"'I really don't know,' said I; 'I've never had any experience, practically, in the newspaper business.'
"At this Mr. Pyke turned round on me with a queer look in his face.