He had conceived for the lawyer an instinctive respect and
liking. There was about him a power of attraction, not readily
definable, but seeming mysteriously to assert some hidden claim from the
past.
Where had he seen that fine and still face before?
CHAPTER IX
Sequels of a surprising and diverse character followed Banneker's sudden
fame. The first to manifest itself was disconcerting. On the Wednesday
following the fight on the pier, Mrs. Brashear intercepted him in the
hallway.
"I'm sure we all admire what you did, Mr. Banneker," she began, in
evident trepidation.
The subject of this eulogy murmured something deprecatory.
"It was very brave of you. Most praiseworthy. We appreciate it, all of
us. Yes, indeed. It's very painful, Mr. Banneker. I never expected
to--to--indeed, I couldn't have believed--" Mrs. Brashear's plump little
hands made gestures so fluttery and helpless that her lodger was moved
to come to her aid.
"What's the matter, Mrs. Brashear? What's troubling you?"
"If you could make it convenient," said she tremulously, "when your
month is up. I shouldn't think of asking you before."
"Are you giving me notice?" he inquired in amazement.
"If you don't mind, please. The notoriety, the--the--your being
arrested.
Pages:
317
318
319
320
321
322
323
324
325
326
327
328
329
330
331
332
333
334
335
336
337
338
339
340
341