"Then you saved my life?"
"I suppose folk would call it by that name."
"All right. That's another nick in the score. I'm obliged to you. You have a big reckoning against me for benefits conferred. Be sure, however, I'll not forget it if ever the opportunity occurs. And now what does this pile of goodly raiment mean? By Jove! methinks I smell food, and it makes me ravenous."
The door opened and Rhotoma Jimmy appeared with a tray.
"Young missis send this longa you."
"All right, old man, put it down over there. I believe I'm famished enough to eat both the victuals and the tray."
"Go ahead, and while you're eating I'll talk. In the first place, your scheme has succeeded admirably. I have spoken to the girl, interested her in us, and I think she'll take us on."
"Good! You're a diplomatist after my own heart."
"But, old man, there must be no hanky-panky over this. If we get the billets we must play fair by her—we must justify her confidence."
"As bad as all that, and in this short time, eh? Well, I suppose it's all right. Yes, we'll play fair."