When Courtland went back to the university his decision was made. He felt that he was under orders, and the Presence would not go with him in any such commission as Uncle Ramsey had proposed. His only regret was that Tennelly would not understand. Dear old Tennelly, who had tried to do his best for him!
The dénouement began in Tennelly's room after supper, when Courtland courteously and firmly thanked Uncle Ramsey, but declined the offer!
Uncle Ramsey grew apoplectic in the face and glared at the young man, finally bringing out an explosive: "What! You decline?"
Uncle Ramsey spluttered and swore. He tore up and down the small confines of the room like an angry bull, bellowing forth anathemas and arguments in a confused jumble. He enlarged on the insult he had been given, and the opportunity that was being lost never to be offered again. He called Courtland a "trifling idiot," and a few other gentle phrases, and demanded reasons for such an unprecedented decision.
Courtland's only answer was: "I am afraid it isn't going to fit in with my views of life, Mr. Thomas. I have thought it over carefully and I cannot accept your offer."
"Why not? Isn't it enough money?" roared the mad financier. "I'll double your salary!"
"Money has nothing to do with it," said Courtland, quietly. "That would make no difference." He was sorry for this scene for Tennelly's sake.
"Well, have you something else in view?"
"No, not definitely."
"Then you're a fool!" said Uncle Ramsey, and further stated what kind of a fool he was, several times, vigorously. After which he mopped his beaded brow with trembling, agitated hands, and sat down. The old bull was baffled at last.