"I never waste time, Mr. Jerrold," said Mr. Stillinghast, after he had closed the door, and resumed his seat; "I never waste any thing—time or words. I am blunt and candid, and aboveboard. I hate the world generally, because I have been deceived in every thing I ever placed faith in. I am a bitter, harsh, penurious old man."
"Your life has been without reproach, sir," observed Mr. Jerrold, who wondered what strange revelation was to be made.
"No compliments; they nauseate me. I sent for you this morning to propose something which you may, or may not, accede to, there being a condition annexed that may not be altogether agreeable. But however it may be, I wish you to understand distinctly that I do it to suit my own ends and pleasure, and if I could do otherwise I would."
"I am very confident, sir, that you will not propose any thing to me incompatible with honor and integrity," said Walter Jerrold.
"No, sir. No; it is a fair bargain—a fair, honest, business transaction I offer, by which you will gain not only credit, but profit. In view of this object, I have been for two days engaged in an investigation of your character."
"Really, Mr. Stillinghast!" began the young man, with a haughty look.
"Investigating your character, sir. I have made inquiries of your friends and foes concerning your habits, your business associations, your antecedents—"
"For what purpose, sir?" inquired Walter Jerrold, flushing up.
"To see if I might trust you."
"And the result of this strange procedure?"