Donaldson moved uneasily.
"It sounds sort of kiddish, but I know that I 'd do better alongside of you. I 'd help you around the office. I 'd feel better, just to see you. Anyway, would you be willing to try me for a while until I sort of get my bearings?"
"I like the idea," answered Donaldson. "Let 's talk it over later. You see there's a chance that I may give up law."
"Give it up?"
"I may have to leave this part of the country—for good."
"Why, man," burst out Arsdale, "you wouldn't leave Elaine?"
The silence grew ominous. The fighting spirit rose in Arsdale at the suggestion.
"You would n't leave Elaine?" he demanded again, turning towards the form on the bed which looked strangely huddled up.
"I must leave her with you," answered Donaldson unsteadily. The boy scarcely recognized the voice, but it roused him to a danger which he felt without understanding.
"Why, man dear," he exclaimed, "what would I count to Elaine with you gone? Don't you know? Have n't you seen?"