"Why, Mr. Skinner, I did n't know you were in a hurry."

"Personally, I'm not," replied Skinner, "but my firm's time is valuable."

"Of course—of course—come right in."

When he got back to his cage, Skinner jotted down in his little book:—

Dress-Suit Account
DebitCredit

One victory over detested
office boy! Good moral effect.
Shan't waste any more time
hereafter just to accommodate
pompous individuals!

"Say, Mac," said Perkins at luncheon, "did you notice our Skinner's brand-new attire?"

"Yes, Perk," said the senior partner, "and I 'm mighty glad of it. I was always ashamed of him—the way he dressed."

CHAPTER VII

SKINNER AND THE "GOLD BUGS"