“So’m I,” grinned little ’Dolph and sat back again. “When I like a fellow, I like him. Enemies can’t hurt my feelings. Now what’s on your mind?”
Brooks got up as suddenly as he had sat down, took a turn the length of the room, and came back.
“’Dolph”—he began somewhat awkwardly and stopped. “’Dolph,—when this season closes I’m going [203] ]to ask you to get some one else for the road. I can’t go out next year.”
For the space of a breath the manager said nothing. He sat blinking uncertainly as if not sure of his ears. Then he jerked forward.
“What’s that?”
“I know it seems a rotten trick to pull. But I want you to take my word, ’Dolph, that I wouldn’t do it if I hadn’t justifiable reasons.”
“Am I to understand that you’re handing me your notice?”
“Yes, old man.”
“You’re notifying me that you quit?”
“Yes.”