“I can’t rent a pair of skates here that will fit me,” came Janet’s answer. “Please have Blanche hunt in my closet and find my own pair, and send them down to me by messenger at once, Duncan.”
“I’ll attend to it,” he promised. “Wait, Janet. Did you draw out some money for father?”
“Yes, a hundred and fifty dollars. Marjorie said she gave it to you. What did you say, Duncan?”
“Nothing. I’ll send the skates. Good-bye,” and he banged up the receiver. But it was some minutes before he moved, and when he rose there were lines about his mouth which had not been there before. He pushed the electric bell, and on Perkins’ entrance, gave him full instructions regarding the skates. As the butler left the room, Calderon Fordyce appeared.
“All alone, Duncan?” he asked. “Where’s Janet?”
“Down skating on the Potomac.”
“Deuce take the girl! What does she mean by gadding about? I told her to return here at once with my money. I promised to advance Perkins’ wages, and——”
“Janet left it with me,” Duncan stepped forward and handed his father the roll of bills. “Here it is.”
“Thanks, Duncan,” Fordyce took out his leather wallet and stuffed the bank notes inside it.
“Hold on,” cautioned Duncan. “Hadn’t you better count your money?”