“I don’t quite know yet,” Kent replied. “I’m just beginning to learn the ropes around the office. So far I like it.”
“You’ll like it better,” said Crooks. “You come to me if you get stuck; but work things out for yourself if you can. Now, about those notes I’ve indorsed!”
“Yes,” said Kent. “I don’t see how I’m to take them up just yet.”
“Nobody wants you to,” said Crooks. “Your father helped me out often enough. I was doing the same for him, and what I’d do for him I’ll do for you. Don’t worry about the notes or renewals. Only—I may as well talk straight to you, Joe—I don’t want to increase my liabilities without I have to. Understand, if it’s a case of need I’ll back you up to any amount in reason, but if you can worry along without more accommodation I wish you would.”
“It’s very good of you,” said Joe. “I’ll try to get along. Anyway, I never thought of asking you for more endorsements.”
“Well, you think of it if you need them,” said Crooks gruffly. “Come to me as if I were your father, boy. I’ll go with you as far as I would with him, and that’s to the rim-ice of Hades.”
For acknowledgment Joe took his hand and shook it, an action which embarrassed the old lumber baron exceedingly.
“All right, all right,” he growled. “Don’t be a blamed young fool. I’m not going away anywhere.”
Joe laughed. “I’m glad of that. I’ll ask your advice pretty often, Mr. Crooks. By the way, what would you think of turning my business into a joint stock company? I don’t fancy the idea myself.”
“Who’s been talking to you?” demanded Crooks.