Now, pay attention:
this is a copy of the first edition of 'The Christmas Carol,' and
stuck between the leaves is something that would cause this flat to be
robbed to-night if the news got down to the Bowery. Are you
listening?"
"I--I am, sir," gasped Melissa, gripping the small package tightly and
shooting a look of apprehension at the kitchen window as if expecting
to see a thief pop into the fifth story window.
"Well, there is a thousand dollar bill concealed in that book. Don't
drop it! It won't bite you. Put it under your pillow to-night, and be
sure he gets it for breakfast. The little note will explain
everything."
"Goodness, Mr. Flanders, it's a dreadful thing to have in bed with a
person. I won't sleep a wink."
"So much the better," said Flanders cheerfully. "Now, you'll not
forget to have it at his place in the morning, will you?"
"If I live through the night, sir, it will be served with his coffee.
I shan't even tell Mr. Diggs." She did not mean this as a reflection
upon the integrity of her suitor, but, fearing that it might be taken
as such, she made haste to add: "So if I'm found murdered in my bed,
you needn't accuse him of doing it.
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