Seeing Mrs. Toomey, Mr. Pantin again hastily thrust his toes into his slippers—partly because he was cognizant of the fact that no real gentleman will receive a lady in his stocking feet, and partly to conceal the neat but large darn on the toe of one sock. He was courteous amiability itself, and Mrs. Toomey’s hopes shot up.
“I came to have a little talk.”
“Yes?”
Mr. Pantin’s smile deceived her and she plunged on with confidence:
“I—we would like to arrange for a loan, Mr. Pantin.”
“To what amount, Mrs. Toomey?”
Mrs. Toomey considered.
“As much as you could conveniently spare.”
The smile which Mr. Pantin endeavored to conceal was genuine.
“For what length of time?”