“Better to live for one day than to exist for a hundred!” Chilcote's voice trembled with anxiety. For the third time he extended his hand and touched the other.
This time Loder did not shake off the detaining; hand; he scarcely seemed to feel its pressure.
“Look here.” Chilcote's fingers tightened. “A little while ago you talked of influence. Here you can step into a position built by influence. You might do all you once hoped to do—”
Loder suddenly lifted his head. “Absurd!” he said. “Absurd! Such a scheme was never carried through.”
“Precisely why it will succeed. People never suspect until they have a precedent. Will you consider it? At least consider it. Remember, if there is a risk, it is I who am running it. On your own showing, you have no position to jeopardize.”
The other laughed curtly.
“Before I go to-night will you promise me to consider it?”
“No.”
“Then you will send me your decision by wire to-morrow. I won't take your answer now.”
Loder freed his arm abruptly. “Why not?” he asked.