"Fred knows the automobile business thoroughly—and Charlie is well up on it also," said Barlow, "so I would suggest that, as I have to put up the money, if necessary, on what you buy, you let Fred and Charlie go with you. Their knowledge should be helpful to you."
"That's a good idea," I agreed; "we'll go next Monday."
"I'll tell Fred to be ready to go with you then," Barlow said. He was silent for a minute, then he went on, "Fred has to buy a lot of automobile accessories for his people, so perhaps, by pooling his and your orders, you can get prices shaved a bit."
I looked up with surprise. "I thought Fred had left his Detroit people."
"He has," said Barlow, abruptly, "but he has made new connections recently."
I wanted to ask what they were, but Barlow's attitude warned me not to.
So, the three of us went to Boston and bought a complete stock of automobile accessories. I followed Fred Barlow's lead, for he certainly was familiar with the goods.
The next day the men came to make arrangements for putting in the gas tank. While they were measuring the pavement, and deciding just where to fix the pump, Stigler happened along.
"Morning, Stigler," I said, with an attempt at joviality; "how's business?"
"Fine," he responded. "How's bread mixers going?" He sneered as he spoke, and I felt myself getting mad.