"Now, I'm a plain-speaking old fellow, and I won't talk nonsense to you about Gratitude or Friendship. I won't say a word about the things I'll do for you Some day. I'll just talk Cash in Hand to you, with no back bills to be paid with promises on either side."
"Very good," I replied, "but I'd rather you would answer the questions about Big Sam and the Council of Nine."
Bolton gave me a cunning look.
"I want you to take up some private business for me," he said slowly, "and I'll give you ten thousand dollars for sixty days' work."
"What work?" I asked sharply, my indignation getting the better of my amusement.
"Confidential work," said Bolton deliberately. "I want a representative in Kendrick's office, and you're the best man I know for the job."
My repressed indignation broke forth at this brazen proffer of a bribe, and I jumped to my feet and shook my fist in Peter Bolton's face.
"You old scoundrel!" I cried. "If you were a younger man, I'd thump the breath out of you!"
"You are a bigger Fool than I thought," said Bolton in his most sarcastic voice. And he threw back his head and opened his mouth in silent laughter.
"I give you warning," I continued, "that I shall tell Colonel Kendrick of your offer."