"And you wanted my advice," Stuart laughed.
The doctor smiled at his own inconsistency.
"Well, I know I'm right, and I wished you to back me up. The law is on my side, isn't it?"
"The written law, yes. But you are facing a bigger question than one of statutory law."
"So I am, boy, so I am! That's why I gave you a glimpse to-night of the world in which I live and work and dream."
"Bivens has put up to you a cold-blooded business proposition——"
"Exactly. And there are things that can't be bought and sold. I am one of them!" The stalwart figure rose in simple dignity, and there was a deep tremor in his voice as he paused.
"But I'm keeping you. It's nine o'clock—and somebody's waiting—eh, boy?"
"Yes," Stuart answered apologetically. "I'm afraid I've not been of much use to you to-night."
The doctor bent closer, smiling: