Ember uttered a thoughtful "Oh?" adding: "Did you find out at all definitely when Max is expected back?"
"Two or three weeks now, they say. He's got his winter productions to get under way. As a matter of fact, it looks to me as if he must be neglecting 'em strangely; it's my impression that the late summer is a producing manager's busiest time."
"Max runs himself by his own original code, I'm afraid. The chances are he's trying to raise money out on the Coast. No money, no productions—in other words."
"I shouldn't wonder."
"But there may be something in what you say—suspect, that is. If I agree to keep an eye on him, will you promise to give me a free hand?"
"Meaning—?"
"Keep out of Max's way: don't risk a wrangle with him."
"Why the devil should I be afraid of Max?"
"I know of no reason—as yet. But I prefer to work unhampered by the indiscretions of my principals."
"Oh—go ahead—to blazes—as far as you like."