"Suppose I sent him a cartel, then," says Mr. Jinks, after a pause.
"A cartel?"
"Yes; something like this."
And taking a preparatory gulp of the rum, Mr. Jinks continues:
"Suppose I write these words to him: 'A. Jinks, Esq., presents his
compliments to ---- Verty, Esq., and requests to be informed at what
hour Mr. Verty will attend in front of Bousch's tavern, for the
purpose of having himself exterminated and killed? How would that do?"
Ralph chokes down a laugh, and, pretending to regard Mr. Jinks with
deep admiration, says:
"An excellent plan--very excellent."
"You think so?" says his companion, dubiously.
"Yes, yes; you should, however, be prepared for one thing."
"What is that?"
"Mr. Verty's reply."
"What would that be, sir? He is not a rash young man, I believe?"
"No--just the contrary. His reply would be courteous and cool."
"Ah?"
"He would write under your letter, demanding at what hour you should
kill him--'ten,' or 'twelve,' or 'four in the afternoon'--at which
time he would come and proceed to bloodshed.
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