By Jove, I got red—could just feel it, you know!
"Ever see a suit of black silk pajamas?" Billings chuckled.
Now for it! "I—I—never did," I managed to get out.
"Never heard of any myself before," Billings gurgled. "But great idea, don't you think? Good thing, traveling—Pullmans, hotels—that sort of thing—eh? Just got them to-day—ordered two weeks ago."
By Jove, what a relief! I felt myself breathing again.
"Wish you would stay," I said, for I felt uneasy about him.
"Oh, no," carelessly; "all my traps are over there, you know." He smiled. "To say nothing of the new pajamas."
Standing in the door, he looked upward again, twirling his cane. His head shook dubiously.
"Could kick myself about those rubies," he grumbled. "Just half a mind to go up there—" He shrugged. "Oh, well, good night, old chap; see you in the morning."
I murmured some reply as I followed him without. Then I stood a moment looking down the shaft after he had descended.