Barrington was silent for several moments. He felt that he was receiving but scanty encouragement.
“Is it worth while, Mr. Aynesworth?” he asked at length. “There is better work for you in the world than this.”
Again Aynesworth preferred to reply by a gesture only. Barrington was watching him steadily.
“A political secretaryship, Mr. Aynesworth,” he said, “might lead you anywhere. If you are ambitious, it is the surest of all stepping stones into the House. After that, your career is in your own hands. I offer you such a post.”
“I am exceedingly obliged to you,” Aynesworth replied, “but I scarcely understand.”
“I have influence,” Barrington said, “which I have never cared to use on my own account. I am willing to use it on yours. You have only to say the word, and the matter is arranged.”
“I can only repeat,” Aynesworth said, “that I am exceedingly obliged to you, Mr. Barrington, but I cannot understand why you should interest yourself so much on my behalf.”
“If you wish me to speak in plain words,” Barrington said, “I will do so. I ask you to aid me as a man of honor in the restoration of those letters to my wife.”
“I cannot do it,” Aynesworth said firmly. “I am sorry that you should have come to me with such an offer. It is quite out of the question!”
Barrington held out his hand.