Watson was forced to laugh. He was twenty—that was bad enough. But Nelson was not yet eighteen. Bill continued to gaze at the serious face of his companion until his own countenance changed. Instead of speaking or sighing he lighted a cigarette.
"Will you have one, Nelsy?"
Evan shook his head.
"Do you think Julia would object?"
"What's she got to do with me?" challenged Nelson.
"Why, she's your girl, man. Sailors have sweethearts in every port, you know, and bankers in every town."
Evan tried to connect sailors and sweethearts with cigarettes, but just at that time was unable to establish anything but a far-fetched relationship. Later in life, on the Bowery, he thought he saw the connection.
In the midst of parties and picnics balance day loomed up. Castle's frame of mind, like a special make of barometer, registered the event a day or so in advance.
"Have you got your ledger proved up?" he asked Evan.
"Pretty well, I think."