It has been common, all my life, for smart people to perceive in me an easy prey for selfish designs, and I have walked without suspicion into the trap set for me, yet have often come out unscathed, against all the likelihoods.

More than forty years ago, in San Francisco, the office staff adjourned, upon conclusion of its work at two o'clock in the morning, to a great bowling establishment where there were twelve alleys.

I was invited, rather perfunctorily, and as a matter of etiquette--by which I mean that I was invited politely, but not urgently.

But when I diffidently declined, with thanks, and explained that I knew nothing about the game, those lively young fellows became at once eager and anxious and urgent to have my society.

This flattered me, for I perceived no trap, and I innocently and gratefully accepted their invitation.