"Can't you bunk here for the night? There's plenty of room," said Warrington.
"Impossible, Dick. I leave at midnight for home. I must be there to-morrow morning. I'm afraid of trouble in the shops. The unions are determined to push me to the limit of my patience."
"Why the deuce don't you get rid of the shops?"
"They're the handiwork of my father, and I'm proud to follow his steps." Bennington's eyes were no longer at peace; they sparkled with defiance. "Half-past ten!" suddenly. "I must be going. My luggage is still at the hotel. God bless you, Dick!"
Their hands met once again.
"You know, jack, that I love you best of all men."
"You are sure there is no woman?"
Warrington laughed easily. "Ah, if there was a woman! I expect to be lonely some day."
Bennington put on his hat and gloves, and Warrington followed him into the hall. Once the prospective bridegroom paused, as if he had left something unsaid; but he seemed to think the better of silence, and went on.
"Tuesday morning, then?"