“And suppose I decline these terms,” said Jack.
“Then I shall be under the painful necessity of retaining you as my guest.”
Foley smiled disagreeably.
Jack walked the room in perturbation. He felt that imprisonment would be better than liberty, on such terms. At the same time he did not refuse unequivocally, as possibly stricter watch than ever might be kept over him.
He thought it best to temporize.
“Well, what do you say?” asked the old man.
“I should like to take time to reflect upon your proposal,” said Jack. “It is of so important a character that I do not like to decide at once.”
“How long do you require?”
“Two days,” returned Jack. “If I should come to a decision sooner, I will let you know.”
“Agreed. Meanwhile can I do anything to promote your comfort? I want you to enjoy yourself as well as you can under the circumstances.”