"Frankly, I can't; but I'm going to do it just the same."
"Saunders," said Mark, "I think I need the services of a sort of detective."
"You mean a protective bodyguard."
"Put it as you like—any way that will let me pay you for your time. You say you are going to stay on the case. I want to have you on it. You may not need me badly, but I'm sure that I need you."
"Then you want me to apply for the job?"
"I'd employ you if you would take it, old chap."
"Then I apply. I never asked for a job before, but I want this one. Shake!"
The men shook hands and started to go upstairs. When they were out of hearing, the clerk called up a number on the telephone.