Tlie table liacl been cleared in the banquet hall, and wit
and humor were having- full sway. A noted speaker was
addressing- the assemblage, being- somewhat satirical and
combative in his remarks on -‘Modern Tendencies in the
Biterary Field. ”
No sooner had the toast been given than Dick arose.
Extremely sober, he began an impromptu rebuttal. Sur
prise was depicted on all faces; but as he progressed, becom
ing thoroughly enthused with his theme, every face was
turned in rapt attention. Aglow with enthusiasm, he im
pressed his hearers with the truth of his convictions. A
burst ot applause recalled Dick to his surroundings and,
much confused, he resumed his seat, among the first to con
gratulate him being his opponent.
It was rather late when Dick arose the next morning
feeling somewhat the worse for his dissipation. A bundle
of letters and the morning paper lay upon the table. In
large type his name stared him in the faqe, while below was
given his speech in full. Among the letters lay a missive
addressed in a hand evidently known to him, if one might
judge by the avidity with which he seized it, tore it open,
and commenced reading
“My Dear Dick,
I heard your speech last night and think
it was simply fine. Allow me to congratulate you. I have
something to tell you, so do not fail to see me this evening.
Faithfully,
Bess. ’ ’