“I understand.”
“Pretend that you cannot definitely settle the matter in a single interview; that you must confer again with Mr. Madden before doing so, and that a second interview will be necessary,” Nick added. “Employ an argument, or subterfuge, in fact, that will enable you to stave off a definite agreement with the scamps.”
“I’ve got you,” Dave nodded. “Leave it to me.”
“Having kept the appointment and accomplished that much, you must let me know all of the particulars as quickly as possible,” Nick proceeded. “Telephone to me, however, instead of coming to my office. I will then give you further instructions. They will depend, of course, upon what you report to me.”
“Certainly. I understand you perfectly.”
“That is all, then, at present,” said Nick. “Do only what I have directed, Mr. Mack, and leave me to do the rest. If I find that I——”
A knock on the door interrupted him. A clerk from the outer office entered.
“Mr. Littlefield is here, sir,” said he, addressing the cashier of the firm. “He wants to go through his account with you this morning, as you requested.”
“Yes, yes, to be sure. Tell him I will be with him in just a moment.”
David Mack arose while speaking, then turned to the detective.