Chapter 1
It was never quite clear to me how Jim Shorthouse managed to get
his private secretaryship; but, once he got it, he kept it, and for
some years he led a steady life and put money in the savings
bank.
One morning his employer sent for him into the study, and it was
evident to the secretary's trained senses that there was something
unusual in the air.
"Mr. Shorthouse," he began, somewhat nervously, "I have never
yet had the opportunity of observing whether or not you are
possessed of personal courage."
Shorthouse gasped, but he said nothing. He was growing
accustomed to the eccentricities of his chief. Shorthouse was a
Kentish man; Sidebotham was "raised" in Chicago; New York was the
present place of residence.
"But," the other continued, with a puff at his very blac
