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 I wish an opportunity to explain," continued George. "I thought your conduct did not require explanation," said Austin, delighted to find some one to be disagreeable to.

"You go right ahead, George," said his host, "and explain anything you have a mind to."

"To begin with," said George, "I am a competent bookkeeper."

"Wrong at the start," replied Mr. Johns. "However, you're no worse than the others, so go on with the explanation."

"I had a perfect right, at the suggestion of your own head man, to accept employment outside the bank if I saw fit. I cannot allow any discussion on that point."

"Anybody want to discuss it?" asked Johns.

"And as for the letters," continued George, "the letters which this gentleman found and read"—he emphasized this bitingly—"all I can say about them is to be candid, Mr. Johns, and tell you that I love your granddaughter."

"God bless my soul!" shouted Mr. Johns, beginning a most elaborate series of grunts and scowls.

"I know, I know, sir," said George,