He swallowed half of what remained in his iced glass, set it back on the table with fastidious precision:
"The worst that can happen to your father is to lose control of the Yo Espero property. I think he is going to lose it. They've crowded me out. If I could have endured the strain I'd have stood by your father—for what you did for mine.... But I couldn't, Mallett."
He moistened his lips again; leaned forward:
"I think I know one thing about you, anyway; and I'm not afraid you'd ever use any words of mine against me——"
"Don't say them!" retorted Duane sharply.
But Dysart went on:
"You have no respect for me. You found out one thing about me that settled me in your opinion. Outside of that, however, you never liked me."
"That is perfectly true."
"I know it. And I want to say now that it was smouldering irritation from that source—wounded vanity, perhaps—coupled with worry and increasing cares, that led to that outburst of mine. I never really believed that my wife needed any protection from the sort of man you are. You are not that kind."
"That also is true."