Just now the temptation to wipe out his punishment by doing the square thing, and coming back a sort of hero, is stronger than any other.

'Tisn't everybody that gets that chance," he added, with an odd laugh.
Nevertheless, three hours passed without bringing Bob.

The two men had gone to the billiard-room, when a waiter brought a note, which he handed to Mr.Hamlin with some apologetic hesitation.

It bore no superscription, but had been brought by a boy who described Mr.Hamlin perfectly, and requested that the note should be handed to him with the remark that "Bob had come back." "And is he there now ?" asked Mr.Hamlin, holding the letter unopened in his hand.
"No, sir; he run right off." The editor laughed, but Mr.Hamlin, having perused the note, put away his cue.

"Come into my room," he said.
The editor followed, and Mr.Hamlin laid the note before him on the table.