The vague dread increased. "What do you mean?"
"Innocent front! Oh, you're a wise one, I see. But you can trust me. I'm safe."
David was silent for several paces. "Who is this man L. D.?"
"This man?" He cackled. "This man! Oh, you'll do!"
David looked away in disgust; the old satyr made him think of the garbage of dissipation. All during their fifteen-minute car ride his indefinite fear changed from one dreadful shape to another. After a short walk the old man led the way into a small apartment house, and up the stairs.
He paused before a door. "Here's your 'man,'" he said, nudging David and giving his dry, throaty little laugh.
"Thanks," said David.
But the guide did not leave. "Ain't you got a dime that's makin' trouble for the rent o' your coin?"
David handed him ten cents. "Safe as a clam," he whispered, and went down the stairs with a cackle about "the man."
David hesitated awhile, with high-beating heart, then knocked at the door. It was opened by a coloured maid.