Nicholas was looking at the floor, and he did not raise his eyes. His face was hard and set.
"Because I was a fool," he answered shortly.
"And now, if I may ask?"
"A fool still—but I've found it out."
The judge leaned back in his chair and tapped the ledge of his desk meditatively.
"Have you fully decided?" he asked.
Nicholas nodded.
"I have thought it over," he said quietly.
"Then there's nothing to be done, I suppose. I hope the compensation will satisfy you. Jerry Pollard is said to be somewhat tight-fisted, but your business instincts may be equal to his acquirements. Now, I have a number of letters, so, if you don't mind, I will bid you good-day."
He bowed, and Nicholas left the study and went out of the house.