I added the last words in what I intended to be a very meaning tone. They had the desired effect, for any tendency to show fight immediately faded out of Mr. Schultz’s countenance.
I then examined his bank-book and some other records which I found in this case quite intelligible.
Rather to my surprise Schultz appeared to have conducted the business quite honestly. He had credited himself with nothing but his wages, and not only was my deposit in the bank intact, but the bric-à-brac had been disposed of at a profit that seemed to me enormous. As the stock was so low I decided to close the shop at once and wait for Captain Welfare to dispose of what was left.
I felt justified in giving Schultz a little money over and above what was due to him. Then I watched him draw down the shutters and lock the door. I took the keys from him and he disappeared with the confidence of those who are always sure of finding some profitable form of minor dishonesty.
I went home to a hot bath with ammonia in it, for this renewed contact with Welfare’s business methods had given me a desire for physical cleansing.
In a few days my penance ended, as Snape departed punctually, smothering me once more with his “earnest and sincere gratitude,” and leaving in my hands his draft for the organisation of a unit of the Church Lads’ Brigade.
And then at last the bishop paid his promised visit, and I looked forward to cleansing my soul by confession, even as I had cleansed my body after the interview with Schultz. When I met him at the station and grasped his hand again I felt as Pilgrim must have felt when Mr. Greatheart joined him. I was sure that the lions of fear and mistrust would be cleared from my path.
“It is a long story,” I said, in answer to his enquiry about my adventures as we drove home.
“Then keep it until the afternoon, when we can have it in volume form. I dislike instalments.”
“Very well. But you look rather haggard yourself. Have you been sleeping badly again?” I enquired anxiously.