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Rh the heathen dagos of the Windy City. Now all he's got left is this cottage and a clear conscience—poor man!"

"Why do you say 'poor man'?"

"Because, dear boy, a clear conscience ain't an available asset. I've got one myself, and I know," said Wilder, plaintively. "But here we are at Maple Walk—one of the most picturesque avenues in town. Please climb these few steps; it is on this walk your charming cottage stands."

"Mine?"

"To be sure. No man of judgment, dear boy, would refuse to buy it, and I can see you 're a good bit wiser than the average resorter. I'm so glad you came!"

"Thank you."

"You 're just the sort of man we need, Mr. Jarrod—the sort we 're always lookin' for."

"To walk on your streets and repair your sidewalks?"

"Exactly."