"Look here, young man. As the man who happened to save the life of my daughter—"
"Suppose we leave her out of this palaver," suggested Blake.
"Unfortunately, that is impossible. It is solely owing to the obligations under which your service to her have put me that I—"
"That you're willing to let me come in here and listen to your pleasant conversation," broke in Blake ironically. "Well, let me tell you, I'm some busy myself these days. Just now I'm out collecting one of your past-due obligations, I've heard you admit you owe for that first Q. T. Railroad survey."
"There was no legal claim on me. I conceded the point at the request of
Mr. Griffith."
"Had to hire him, eh? Best consulting engineer in the city. And he held out for a settlement," rallied Blake.
"You were one of the party?"
"Transitman."
"Then apply to my auditor. He has your pay-check waiting for you."
"How about interest? It's two years over-due."