"You say you told him all your plans in full?" suggested Corson, referring to the outburst with which Daunt began his arraignment of the situation.
"Of course I told him! You gave me no warning. I dealt with him, gentleman with gentleman, under your roof!"
"I didn't think it was necessary to counsel a man like you about the ordinary prudence required in all business matters."
"I had his word in his own office that he was heartily with me. You told me he was as square as a brick when it came to his word. I went on that basis, Corson!"
"I'm sorry," admitted the Senator. "I thought I knew Stewart through and through. But I haven't been keeping in touch as closely as I ought. I have heard things this evening—" He hesitated.
"You have heard things—and still you allowed me to go on and empty my basket in front of him?"
"I heard 'em only after you were closeted here with him, Daunt. And I can't believe it's as bad as it has been represented to me. And even as it stands, I think I know how to handle him. I have already taken steps to that end."
"How?"
"Please accept my say-so for the time being, Daunt! It isn't a matter to be canvassed between us."
"I suppose you learn that sort of reticence in politics, even in the case of a friend, Corson," growled the banker. "I wish I had taken a few lessons from you before talking with one of your friends this evening."