Читать книгу Dangerous Dilemmas: Startling but True онлайн

25 страница из 41

But the morning found us without any solution to the problem, and Dodd, who took the greater part of the blame on himself—went out into the town to see if he could meet any friend who would lend him a few pounds. The time Dodd was gone Somers said he would look into the public room, and I was left in my bedroom writing "copy" for the Weekly Clarion. Somers soon returned with a beaming countenance.

"You have been fortunate?" I said.

"Yes, but not in the manner you think," answered Somers.

"But do you see your way out of the difficulty?"

"Certainly, but it all depends on you."

"Well, explain. I am ready to do anything."

"I thought so. Now, listen. There is a sale on in the yard, and the auctioneer has not turned up. When I saw the dilemma the farmers were in, I said my friend would be glad to officiate—meaning you. Dodd would make a regular mess of it, and my squeaky voice would never be heard."

"You cannot be serious, Somers," I exclaimed.

"Never more serious in my life."

"But I have never acted as an auctioneer."