“I feel frazzled out; that’s what I mind.”
“Suppose you come out with me to-night as soon as I report to the desk,” suggested the other.
Banneker, refreshed by the tingling drink, looked down at him in surprise. “Where?” he asked.
“I’ve got a little boat out here in the East River.”
“A boat? Lord, that sounds good!” sighed Banneker.
“Does it? Then see here! Why couldn’t you put in a few days with me, and cool off? I’ve often wanted to talk to you about the newspaper business, and get your ideas.”
“But I’m newer at it than you are.”
“For a fact! Just the same you’ve got the trick of it and I haven’t. I’ll go around to your place while you pack a suitcase, and we’re off.”
“That’s very good of you.” Accustomed though he was to the swift and ready comradeship of a newspaper office, Banneker was puzzled by this advance from the shy and remote Smith. “All right: if you’ll let me share expenses,” he said presently.
Smith seemed taken aback at this. “Just as you like,” he assented. “Though I don’t quite know—We’ll talk of that later.”