Al could not help thinking that the manner in which his companion almost shoved him out of the room was due to a fear that he would open the envelope before he got out. But he put it in his pocket, saying:
"I am very much obliged to you for your kindness to me, sir."
"The obligation is on the other side, Mr. Allston," was the reply. "But good-day—and good luck to you."
It was after eleven when Al reached Mr. Wattles' hotel.
"I was beginning to be a little nervous about you," said the manager. "But I said to myself: 'I don't believe he is one of the kind that go back on an agreement.'"
"And you were right, Mr. Wattles."
"You know you must leave by the noon train."
"I am all ready, sir."
"Our next stand, as you are aware, is Rockton. It has the reputation of being a bad show town, and if you can create a furore there you will do well."
"I'll try, sir."