“Why didn’t you turn Rocks down?”
“When I give a promise I try to stand by it.”
“Who’s goin’ to pin a rose on you for that? Old Rocks? Fergit it! He’s workin’ a scheme, and already you’re beginnin’ to get the worst of it. What did he say about that note?”
“Said he’d pay me the money in a week or two.”
“He never will, and all he’s doin’ is playin’ for time. You and me can’t trot in double harness if you stay here, Red. I was sort o’ bankin’ on takin’ your little hand in mine and goin’ out for a look at the universe. And here you’ve cut yourself off from Jimmie and Jonah first clatter out o’ the box.”
“We’ll keep track of each other,” laughed Clancy, “and maybe I’ll be able to help you to a job before long. How are you fixed for money, Jimmie?”
“Money?” gasped Fortune. “What’s that? I ain’t on speakin’ terms with a soo markee.”
Clancy took two silver dollars from his pocket and pressed them into his friend’s hand.
“That’s not much, Jimmie,” said he, “but it’s the best I can do for the present. That ought to keep you going for a short time. I don’t think I’m going to like it at this garage,” he went on, dropping his voice, “but I’ve got to stay here till I collect the money on that note. Drop around occasionally and let me know where you are.”
Fortune looked at the two pieces of silver reflectively.