num_pages: 293
description: He was thirty-three agreeable to look at equipped with as much culture and intelligence as is tolerated east of Fifth Avenue and west of Madison. He had a couple of elaborate rooms at the Lenox Club a larger income than seemed to be good for him and no profession. It follows that he was a pessimist before breakfast. Besides it's a bad thing for a man at thirty-three to come to the conclusion that he has seen all the most attractive girls in the world and that they have been vastly overrated. So when a club servant with gilt buttons on his coat tails knocked at the door the invitation to enter was not very cordial. He of the buttons knocked again to take the edge off before he entered; then opened the door and unburdened himself as follows: Mr. Gatewood sir Mr. Kerns's compliments and wishes to know if 'e may 'ave 'is coffee served at your tyble sir. Gatewood before the mirror gave a vicious twist to his tie inserted a pearl scarf pin and regarded the effect with gloomy approval. Say to Mr. Kerns that I am-flattered he replied morosely; and tell Henry I want him. 'Enry sir? Yes sir. The servant left; one of the sleek club valets came in softly sidling. Henry! Sir? I'll wear a white waistcoat if you don't object. The valet laid out half a dozen. Which one do you usually wear when I'm away Henry? Which is your favorite? Sir? Pick it out and don't look injured and don't roll up your eyes. I merely desire to borrow it for one day. Very good sir. And Henry hereafter always help yourself to my best cigars. Those I smoke may injure you. I've attempted to conceal the keys but you will of course eventually discover them under that loose tile on the hearth. Yes sir; thanky' sir returned the valet gravely. And-Henry! Sir? with martyred dignity. When you are tired of searching for my olivine and opal pin just find it for a change. I'd like to wear that pin for a day or two if it would not inconvenience you. Very good sir; I will 'unt it hup sir. Gatewood put on his coat took hat and gloves from the unabashed valet and sauntered down to the sunny breakfast room where he found Kerns inspecting a morning paper and leisurely consuming grapefruit with a cocktail on the side.
language: English
title: The Tracer of Lost Persons
publisher: NY: D. Appleton & Co.