By the way, Mr.
Van Truder, would you mind doing me a favour this evening?"
"Gladly. Who are you?"
"Joe Dauntless."
"Anything, my dear Joe."
"Well, it's a dead secret."
"A secret? Trust me," cried the old man, joyfully.
"First, let me introduce my friend, the Rev. Mr. Derby. He's in the
secret. It will go no farther, I trust, Mr. Van Truder."
"My wife says I can't keep a secret, but I'll show her that I can.
Trust me, my boy."
"I'll bet you a hundred dollars you can't keep this one," said Joe,
inspired.
"Done!"
"Well," bravely but cautiously, "I'm going to be married to-night. Be
careful now! Look out! Don't explode! Remember the bet!" The old
gentleman repressed his feelings.
"Beautiful!" he exclaimed. "Congratulations, my boy."
"Now for the favour. I want you to act as a witness. It's to be a very
quiet affair." Dauntless explained as much of the situation to him as
he thought necessary, omitting the lady's name. Mr. Van Truder bubbled
over with joy and eagerness. He promised faithfully to accompany Mr.
Derby, pooh-hooing the suggestion that he could not slip away from the
hotel without his wife being aware of the fact.
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