He had no
difficulty in finding a new profession. Instead of experience and
testimonials he offered his personality and a sporting bet. He
would take no wages the first month, and--if he satisfied his
employer--double wages the second. He always got his double
wages.
He was now thirty. He had come to Waldheim for a holiday,
because he liked the look of the station. His ticket entitled
him to travel further, but he had always intended to please
himself in the matter. Waldheim attracted him, and he had a
suit-case in the carriage with him and money in his pocket. Why
not get out?
The landlady of 'The George' was only too glad to put him up, and
promised that her husband would drive over that afternoon for his
luggage.
"And you would like some lunch, I expect, sir."
"Yes, but don't give yourself any trouble about it. Cold
anything-you've-got."
"What about beef, sir?" she asked, as if she had a hundred
varieties of meat to select from, and was offering him her best.
"That will do splendidly. And a pint of beer."
While he was finishing his lunch, the landlord came in to ask
about the luggage.
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