Galusha told of his connection with the National Institute.
“I do—ah—archaeological work,” he added. “Egyptology is my specialty.”
Minor nodded. “Yes, yes,” he said, doubtfully. “Just so.”
Plainly he regarded it as a weird sort of business.
“And you are still a—ah—banker?” queried Galusha.
“Yes. Very much so. I'm second vice president here now.”
“Dear me! dear me! You have been in this place ever since? Well, well!”
A pause, during which each regarded the other, trying not to show the pity they felt. Then Minor asked if there was anything he could do for his former associate. Galusha explained that he had come to town to see his cousin, Mr. Augustus Cabot, on a business matter. Mr. Minor was surprised, momentarily.
“That's so,” he said, “he is a relative of yours, isn't he? I had forgotten.”
“Yes, yes, he is. He—ah—you see, he looks after things for me—investments and—all that.”