My companion and I did not return for the last act of the play, but strolled out in the street, where I told him of the episode of the fire and the part that Oakes had played in it.
"His actions, both at the time and afterwards when he tried to avoid notice, are characteristic," said Moore. "He is reputed as doing things vigorously and opportunely. His presence of mind is marvellous, I am told. You remember, he had that gift years back in college. Now, it seems to have developed greatly, until everybody who knows him well speaks of it."
"Are you well acquainted with him? You seem to know all about him."
"Yes, indeed," answered my friend. "I met him one night several years back, and I became so attracted to him that I cultivated his acquaintance wherever possible."
"Then you will understand how I was glad to identify him," was my rejoinder.
"Yes, indeed; if you like, you can easily manage to meet him."
I expressed my earnest desire, and Dr. Moore promised to arrange it so that we could meet some evening at the Club.
"By the way," said my companion, "he is probably the best informed, all-round man you have ever met. He did not cease learning at college."
"Lucky for him," I exclaimed laughingly.
"Well, don't be surprised if he starts in to discuss law with you, and holds you up at your own profession; he is a surprise party, sometimes."