"I know. That goes."
"But my owners wouldn't stand for the damages. They'd be equally liable, you know."
"I'll guarantee them up to my last shilling. Get your editor on the trunk wire, and find out how much guarantee he'll want me to put up."
Martin looked at him half in admiration and half in doubtfulness.
"It would be a tremendous risk for me to take!"
Matheson looked him square in the eye.
"If you want a scoop that will make your career," he answered slowly, "it's here. Waiting for you to pick it up. I promised you first call on my news—here it is. Have you the pluck to take your opportunity?"
"Exclusive?" asked Martin, the magic word "scoop" setting him aflame.
"You'll prove to me that you're Clifford Matheson right enough?"