We haggled for an hour over the division of the profits. I passionately refused to consider fifty-fifty, since the work and the risk were all mine. Half a dozen times the budding partnership seemed about to end. We finally agreed on sixty and forty. By holding out as I did, I believe I have lulled Jumbo's suspicions forever.
The compact was cemented with a drink.
We talked on about diamonds, and I saw a new idea form and grow in Jumbo's little swimming eyes. Studying me speculatively, he put me through a lengthy cross-examination concerning my knowledge of precious stones.
"You're one of these here experts yourself, ain't you?" he said at last.
I modestly accepted the designation.
"What did you leave England for?" he asked suddenly.
"What's past is past," I said scowling.
"Sure," he said hastily. "I don't want to pry into your affairs."
He changed the subject, but I could see him still chewing over the same idea, whatever it was.
We were sitting as usual at one of the little tables down the side of the bar-room. Jumbo excused himself for a few minutes. When he came back he talked about one thing and another, but it was manifestly to gain time. He glanced at the door from time to time. I wondered what was saving for me.