May I ask what that service is to be, and where you think of going to ?" "The service," returned the hermit slowly and with his eyes fixed on the floor as if pondering his reply, "is to accompany me as my attendant and companion, to take notes as occasion may serve, and to paddle a canoe." At this reply our hero almost laughed, but was prevented from doing so by his host asking abruptly if he understood canoeing.
"Well, yes.

At least I can manage what in England is known as the Rob Roy canoe, having possessed one in my boyhood." "That will do," returned the hermit gravely.

"Can you write shorthand ?" "I can.

A friend of mine, a reporter on one of the London dailies, once gave me a few lessons, and, becoming fond of the subject, I followed it up." "That is well; you did well.

It is of immense advantage to a man, whatever his position in life, that he should be able to write shorthand with facility.