With beating heart I rushed to receive the letter which I knew must be for me.
It was, but it was not from my uncle, it was from Hawkesbury.
"My Dear Batchelor," he wrote, "I am very sorry to see that I have given you offence by settling your debt with Wallop.

I really meant it for the best, because I knew you could not pay, and I was afraid if it came to my uncle's or Mr Barnacle's knowledge it might be awkward for you, for I happen to know my uncle feels very strongly about clerks getting into debt, especially through gambling.

I'm afraid I can't undo what has been done, for Wallop will hardly give me back the money.

So I write to tell you how sorry I am, and to say I hope you will forgive me.
Please do not trouble about the repayment of the loan; you must take whatever time suits you.

I trust this little matter will not make us worse friends than before.
"Yours sincerely,-- "E.