"I was. Besides that, I had the cold shoulder turned upon me. Major D.
was believed; I was doubted; some people went so far as to say I must
have trumped up the tale. For some time after that I would not take a
bank-note from any man unless he put his signature to it, and it has
grown into a habit with me. So, if you don't mind, Squire----"
The Squire smiled goodnaturedly, drew the bank-note to him, and wrote
upon the back in a corner, "J. Todhetley."
"There, Preen," said he, returning it, "I won't repudiate that. Couldn't
if I would."
Mr. Preen put the note into his pocket-book, and rose to leave. We
strolled with him across the front garden to the gate, where his gig was
waiting.
"I have to go as far as Norton; and possibly after that on to Stoulton,"
he remarked, as he took the reins in his hand and got in.
"You will have a hot drive of it," said the Squire.
"Yes; but if one undertakes business it must be attended to," said
Preen, as he drove off.