I opened it carelessly, but as my eye fell on the President's hand, I started in amazement.

The note was dated "Saturday--From on board _The Songstress_," and ran as follows: "Dear Mr.Martin: I must confess to having underrated your courage and abilities.

If you care to put them at my disposal now, I will accept them.
In the other event, I must refer you to my public announcement.

In any case it may be useful to you to know that McGregor designs to marry Signorina Nugent.

I fear that on my return it will be hardly consistent with my public duties to spare your life (unless you accept my present offer), but I shall always look back to your acquaintance with pleasure.