Gladwyne examined his cigar. It was not in his nature to face an issue boldly, and his companion seemed determined to force one.
“I’ve asked it as a favor,” he finally said.
“No,” corrected Batley; “I don’t think you did so. You intimated your wishes in a rather lordly style.”
This was true, but Gladwyne winced at the man’s cold smile. He had, in a fit of indignation which was both honest and commendable, expressed himself with some haughtiness; but he knew that he would be beaten if it came to an open fight. This was unfortunate, because his intentions were good.
“Besides,” Batley continued, “I’m not in a position to grant expensive favors. My acquaintance with young Crestwick is, of course, profitable. What’s more, I’ve very liberally offered you a share.”
Gladwyne’s face grew hot. He had acted, most reluctantly, as a decoy to the vicious lad, but he had never benefited by it, except when now and then some stake fell into his hands. The suggestion that he should share in the plunder filled him with disgust, and he knew that Batley had made it to humiliate him.
“You’re taking risks,” he continued. “There’s legislation on the subject of minors’ debts; Crestwick began to deal with you before he was twenty-one, and he’s still in his trustees’ hands. If he made trouble, I’m inclined to think some of your transactions would look very much like conspiracy.”
“I know my man. You people would suffer a good deal, sooner than advertise yourselves through the law courts.”
“Crestwick isn’t one of us,” Gladwyne objected.
“Then, as he aspires to be considered one, he’ll go even farther than you would. None are so keen for the honor of the flock as those who don’t strictly belong to the fold. There’s another point you overlook—a person can’t very well conspire alone, and inquiries might be made about my confederates. That, however, is not a matter of much importance, because I imagine Miss Crestwick would not allow any one to point to you. Besides, her money’s safe, and she’s a prepossessing young lady.”