“My son! what does he say?” demanded the old man, half-suspecting the purport of the billet. “Ah!” exclaimed Stevens, with the readiness of a practised actor, “there is some hope, I am glad to tell you, Mr. Hinkley, of his coming to his senses. He declares his wish to atone, and invites me to see him. I have no doubt that he wishes me to mediate for him.” “I will never forgive him while I have breath!” cried the old man, leaving the room. “Tell him that!” “Wait a moment, my pretty one,” said Stevens, as he was about retiring to his chamber, “till I can write an answer.” The billet of Hinkley he again read. We may do so likewise. It was to the following effect:-- “Sir: If I understood your last assurance on leaving you this day, I am to believe that the stroke of my whip has made its proper impression on your soul--that you are willing to use the ordinary means of ordinary persons, to avenge an indignity which was not CONFINED TO YOUR CLOTH. If so, meet me at the lake with whatever weapons you choose to bring. I will be there, provided with pistols for both, at any hour from three to six. I shall proceed to the spot as soon as I receive your answer. “W. H.” “Short and sharp!” exclaimed Stevens as he read the billet. “'Who would have thought that the YOUNG man had so much blood in him!' Well, we will not balk your desire, Master Hinkley. We will meet you, in verity, though it may compel me to throw up my present hand and call for other cards. N'importe: there is no other course.” While soliloquizing, he penned his answer, which was brief and to the purpose:-- “I will meet you as soon as I can steal off without provoking suspicion. I have pistols which I will bring with me. “A. S.” “There, my little damsel,” said he, re-entering the dining-room, and putting the sealed paper into the hands of the child, “carry that to Mr. Hinkley, and tell him I will come and speak with him as he begs me. But the note will tell him.” “Yes, sir.” “So----”