The visitor was David Tholbin.
CHAPTER VII. THE PLAN IS MADE
THERE was a marked tenseness in David Tholbin’s expression as the sallow-faced young man met the gaze of Parker Noyes. It was obvious that Tholbin viewed the attorney with a sense of awe. He seemed perplexed by the purpose of his visit, and shifted uneasily in his chair.
Noyes, on the contrary, was quite at ease. Seated behind his desk, he folded his hands and surveyed his visitor with a severe, though kindly gaze.
“Tholbin,” said the old attorney quietly, “you are probably aware of the fact that I represent Tobias Waddell in all his legal matters.”
Tholbin nodded.
“Also,” continued Noyes, “I have his confidence in other affairs. We are old friends.”
“I know it,” returned Tholbin.
“Therefore” — Noyes spoke in a speculative tone — “the matter of Betty Waddell’s future husband is something in which I feel more than a passing interest. I, as much as Mr. Waddell, am interested in seeing that she makes a suitable marriage.”
Tholbin’s gaze was challenging. The young man had adopted an air of bravado. His policy was to let Noyes do the talking. The lawyer’s next remarks, however, were to cause him great concern.