Mays did not even hesitate. Evidently he had prepared himself for this.
“Another man had got his application,” he said, “and I was afraid it would look as if I were trying to interfere in some way. I did nod to him, but very likely it wasn’t noticed.”
“What are your relations with Schlimmer?” persisted Murray.
“Oh, I got into a little business deal with him, for which I am sincerely sorry. I’m trying to get out now.”
“Insurance?” asked Murray.
“No, sir; it had nothing whatever to do with insurance.”
Murray was thoughtful and silent for several minutes.
“Mays,” he said at last, speaking slowly, “I don’t know whether you’re worth saving or not. You’ve got in with a bad crowd and you’re mixed up in a bad deal. But you impressed me favorably when you came here, and I think you are capable of being legitimately successful. Of course, you lied to me about your mother—”
“I was very anxious for the job, sir.”
“I quite appreciate that, although your motive for wanting the job will hardly bear close scrutiny. Still, you are young and I am anxious to give you another chance. Now, tell me the whole story.”