'They have gone to the Continent. I cannot say what road they are taking. They said they would be back next month.'

'A month! Oh, this is awful! You must tell me how to send a message to them. It's extremely important. Also I must see someone else in their family at once. There's been a very big mistake. When they find out what has happened they'll be back before night. Will you tell them I've been here? I will keep coming back here until the mistake is put right, and they needn't be afraid.'

'They said you would be here in an hour to make inquiries. I must tell you there is no problem, they'll be here on time and expect you.'

So I had to give up and go away.It was all a big puzzle! I felt as though I was going mad. What did the servant mean when he said they would be here 'on time'? I remembered the letter that was in the envelope with the banknote. Maybe that would explain. I took the letter out and read it. This is what it said:

You look as though you are an intelligent and honest man. We get the idea that you are poor and a stranger in London. You will find some money in this envelope. you can have it for thirty days, without interest. Come back to this house at the end of the month. I have made a bet. If I win it you shall have any employment that I can give you. That is, any job that you know how to do and can do well.'