'A written apology!' repeated Mr Winkle. His voice showed that he was as amazed as it was possible to be.

'Of course you know the alternative,' replied the visitor coolly.

'Were you asked to give this message to me personally?' inquired Mr Winkle, who was hopelessly confused by this extraordinary conversation.

'I was not present myself,' replied the visitor, 'and because you firmly refused to give your card to Doctor Slammer, he told me I could identify you because you wear a very uncommon coat - a bright blue dress-coat, with a gilt button displaying a picture, and the letters "P. C."'

'Mr Winkle actually staggered with astonishment as he heard this exact description of his coat. Doctor Slammer's friend proceeded: - 'I asked at the bar just now, and I discovered that the owner of the coat I am talking about is here. He arrived with three gentlemen yesterday afternoon. I immediately asked the gentleman who seemed to be the head of the party, and at once he told me it was you.'