We soon reached the bank, which, in contrast with the many fine buildings in the place, was a dilapidated structure. We entered the main office; and here Mr. Markham asked me to wait while he held a brief consultation with the president.
I waited for half an hour. During that time many people came and went; but I knew none of them. The janitor eyed me sharply, and finally asked me what I wanted.
His tone was a rough one, and I replied curtly that I was waiting for a gentleman who had gone in to see the president; then I turned on my heel, and walking outside, stood on the pavement. It was not until some time later that I found out how suspicious my actions had been regarded.
Presently Mr. Markham came down the steps in a hurry. He was pale with anger, and his eyes flashed with indignation.
“It is an outrage! an abominable outrage!” he ejaculated.
I was rather surprised, and could not refrain from asking what was the trouble.
“You would hardly understand it, Reuben,” he replied. “I made a deposit in this bank under rather peculiar circumstances, and now President Webster refuses to allow me to draw the balance due me until certain matters are adjusted.”
“I hope you don’t lose by it.”