Donald hesitated. It seemed ages since he had entered a private house. He glanced down at his only suit, which was rather seedy, then looked up, to find the usually roguish eyes of his companion fixed upon him seriously.
“Thanks, old man. I hope I may have the pleasure at some time, but I can’t do it now.”
“You said you were broke,” began Douglas, hesitatingly, “can—I——”
“No, no, I’ll see you to-morrow,” interrupted Donald, turning abruptly and walking swiftly down Granville Street.
Douglas stood watching him until he disappeared. “A mighty good sport,” he said softly.
Fresh from his exercises and shower, his cheeks red, his dark eyes shining with the clear glow of health, his step springy and free, Donald was a picture of rugged health and strength. But for all this apparent outward brightness, inwardly he felt rebellious. Douglas’s invitation had brought a great longing for the comforts of his past life. Why should he assume the rôle of a pugilist to eke out an existence? Why wear shabby clothes and even know the pangs of hunger? Was it necessary? He had but to wire his father that he was destitute and plenty of money would be forthcoming.
A big steak at “Old Joe’s” furnished him a hearty meal. As he selected the money from his meagre supply of cash to pay his check, Old Joe bent his grizzled head forward. “Are ye gittin’ short, son?” he asked. “Don’t go hungry; come in any time.”
“Thanks, Joe.”
Donald was in a dark mood. He heard the sound of happy laughter coming from a saloon on the corner. There behind those swinging doors was momentary recess from worldly cares. He stood in the door of the restaurant and looked across the Inlet at the twin peaks, known as the “Lions,” which guard the entrance to Vancouver’s harbour. The sun was setting in a mass of fleecy clouds; the clouds became a luminous gauze, and a golden splendour spread over the water. The mountains were suffused in violet, while the snow-fields took on a faint stain of rose. Donald’s face glowed as he watched.
“Some country!” he breathed. He turned to catch a friendly smile from Old Joe as he worked over his range. “And some people!” he added fervently.