A Final Triumph; or, A Lady Bachelor — page 139: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

RIFTINGS. 13? the man whom I had so often pictured in my mind. When I met him, he filled the full outlines of my imagina- tion. George Edicott was, beyond question, a very handsome man. I judged him to be about two-and-thirty, and, as it proved, I was not out of the way. ‘There was nothing of the hero in his appearance, but he bore evidence of being a level-headed, warm-hearted man, possessed of de- cided individuality; a magnetic fellow—one born to be popular with his associates. When Laurence Adams introduced me,, he stated: ** This gentleman is responsible for the cablegram which brought you to the New York. He will explain why you were summoned. ”’ George looked me all over in a quick, discerning way, and I recognized that he was of a kindly temperament. My physical misfortune, it was plain, aroused his sym- pathies, and certainly commanded his indulgence. ‘*T am very happy to meet you, sir,”? he said. ‘‘I am surprised, however, and can not conceive why I should be called home in such a peremptory manner.”’ **T think 1 can give you satisfactory reasons in the end for cabling you to return to New York. I must ask, how- ever, that you will restrain all excitement and indignation until our interview is over. During its continuance your patience will be tried, your indignation possibly excited; put 1 promise you will be satisfied and well pleased. I can add also, unless 1 am greatly mistaken, you will be grateful. ’’ It was a strange look he flashed upon me, but I did not Gomicbooks (EO)