Northward they turned; and a policeman who glanced at their unkempt and slinking figures withheld the attention and suspicion that he would have granted them at any other hour and place. For on every street in that part of the city other unkempt and slinking figures were shuffling and hurrying toward a converging point—a point that is marked by no monument save that groove on the pavement worn by tens of thousands of waiting feet.
At Ninth street a tall man wearing an opera hat alighted from a Broadway car and turned his face westward. But he saw Murray, pounced upon him and dragged him under a street light. The Captain lumbered slowly to the corner, like a wounded bear, and waited, growling.
«Jerry!» cried the hatted one. «How fortunate! I was to begin a search for you to–morrow. The old gentleman has capitulated. You're to be restored to favor. Congratulate you. Come to the office in the morning and get all the money you want. I've liberal instructions in that respect.»
«And the little matrimonial arrangement?» said Murray, with his head turned sidewise.
«Why. — er—well, of course, your uncle understands—expects that the engagement between you and Miss Vanderhurst shall be»—
«Good night,» said Murray, moving away.
«You madman!» cried the other, catching his arm. «Would you give up two millions on account of»—
«Did you ever see her nose, old man?» asked Murray, solemnly.
«But, listen to reason, Jerry. Miss Vanderhurst is an heiress, and»—
«Did you ever see it?»