His odd manners and language made such an impression on me at the time, that I think I can repeat his "statement" now, almost word for word as he addressed it to me.
THE LAWYER'S STORY OF A STOLEN LETTER.
I served my time--never mind in whose office--and I started in business for myself in one of our English country towns, I decline stating which.
I hadn't a farthing of capital, and my friends in the neighborhood were poor and useless enough, with one exception.

That exception was Mr.
Frank Gatliffe, son of Mr.Gatliffe, member for the county, the richest man and the proudest for many a mile round about our parts.

Stop a bit, Mr.Artist, you needn't perk up and look knowing.

You won't trace any particulars by the name of Gatliffe.

I'm not bound to commit myself or anybody else by mentioning names.