"Do you mean to infer, Sargent, that I will deal crookedly with those who give me their loyal support?"

"Well, some of them get favors."

"No! You are mistaken, sir. In business I have no favorites."

"How about Cassie?"

"What about her?"

"Well, I know you have paid her money within a week."

"I have not paid her any money, Sargent."

"But Cates saw you give it to her in Hartland."

"Cassie has been ill."

"What of that?"