"You will stop in London." "I'll bet you two to one, Sir, he goes back to the Community." In those words, a third voice (speaking in a strong New England accent) insinuated itself into the conversation from behind.

Amelius and Mr.
Hethcote, looking round, discovered a long, lean, grave stranger--with his face overshadowed by a huge felt hat.

"Have you been listening to our conversation ?" Mr.Hethcote asked haughtily.
"I have been listening," answered the grave stranger, "with considerable interest.

This young man, I find, opens a new chapter to me in the book of humanity.

Do you accept my bet, Sir?
My name is Rufus Dingwell; and my home is at Coolspring, Mass.