“I wish to talk with Philip Manson.”
“About what?”
“Well, about a great many things; about the general situation here, for instance.”
“Offhand, I should say I am the proper person to consult on such a subject,” said Blair, with some acidity.
“Of course,” replied Steele, mildly, “but you see, Man-son was my predecessor. He has probably been through what I am going through now, and I should like a few hints from him.”
“Who is to fill your place while you are away?”
“Johnson could do that.”
“Do you think he is competent?”
“Oh, quite competent.”
“Then can you explain why Mr. Rockervelt put you in the place of Manson, if Johnson was capable of filling it?”