But for all except the few who are strong
and steadfast, there lurks beneath the effervescence a subtle poison.
CHAPTER XVI
Not being specially gifted with originality of either thought or
expression, Mr. Herbert Cressey stopped Banneker outside of his
apartment with the remark made and provided for the delayed reunion of
frequent companions: "Well I thought you were dead!"
By way of keeping to the same level Banneker replied cheerfully: "I'm
not."
"Where've you been all this while?"
"Working."
"Where were you Monday last? Didn't see you at Sherry's."
"Working."
"And the week before? You weren't at The Retreat."
"Working, also."
"And the week before that? Nobody's seen so much--"
"Working. Working. Working."
"I stopped in at your roost and your new man told me you were away and
might be gone indefinitely. Funny chap, your new man. Mysterious sort of
manner. Where'd you pick him up?"
"Oh, Lord! Hainer!" exclaimed Banneker appreciatively. "Well, he told
the truth."
"You look pulled down, too, by Jove!" commented Cressey, concern on his
sightly face. "Ridin' for a fall, aren't you?"
"Only for a test. I'm going to let up next week."
"Tell you what," proffered Cressey. "Let's do a day together.
Pages:
469
470
471
472
473
474
475
476
477
478
479
480
481
482
483
484
485
486
487
488
489
490
491
492
493