"My,—but it's a big gamble!" I said low to myself.
"That is the only kind worth making!" she flashed.
It struck the right note in my heart. She held out her hand, and I took it in mine.
"We're partners on this thing!" I smiled.
"Yes—to the end. Now, shall we go to Mr. Dround?"
Here was a woman who should have headed a regiment, or run a railroad, or sat at a game with a large stake!
Mr. Dround opened the door on the veranda and came forward, walking feebly.
"How do you do, Harrington?" He greeted me, giving me a thin, feverish hand. "The doctor's been gone a good while, Jane," he added querulously. "I have been waiting for you in the library."
Mrs. Dround moved away while we discussed some matters of urgency, and then Mr. Dround said hesitantly: "I hope you see your way clear, Harrington, to accepting my offer. It promises a great future for a man as young as you, with your energy," he added a trifle pompously.
"It is pretty late to talk of that to-night," I replied, evasively.