Simpson looked quickly at Aunt Mary and then at Merriam.
"Let me know who it is," said the latter, realising that he must seem to be in command.
When Simpson opened the door it was Rockwell who pushed past him. He stopped short before Thompson (with his cigar) in hostile confrontation.
Cautiously Merriam peered around the off side of his high backed chair.
"Mr. Thompson," he said, "you know Mr. Rockwell, I believe. My new manager!"
For a moment Thompson stood. Once his mouth opened, almost certainly to frame an oath. It is strange evidence of the survival of chivalry in American life that Aunt Mary's presence restrained that outburst. Instead, we must suppose, he took the stub of his cigar from his mouth and dashed it on the carpet.
"I'm through!" he said. Then to Merriam: "I'll use your door all right--for the last time--till you send for me!"
He caught up his hat and walked past Rockwell, within an inch of brushing against him but not looking at him.
At the door he turned.
"You've read your morning papers, I suppose! Have you read Tidbits? Take a look at it!"