"Couch? Oh, that's Certina Charley, isn't it? Your professional fixer?"
"Never mind what he is. You'll be sure to do it, won't you?"
"No. Do it yourself," said Ellis curtly, and walked out without a good-night.
"Well, whaddye think of that!" spluttered Dr. Surtaine. "That fellow's getting the big-head."
Hal made no reply. He had dropped into a chair and now sat with his head between his hands. When he raised his face it was haggard as if with famine.
"Dad, I'm going away."
"Where?" demanded his father, startled.
"Anywhere, away from this house."
"No wonder you're shaken, Boyee," said the other soothingly. "We'll talk about it in the morning. After a night's rest—"
"In this house? I couldn't close my eyes for fear of what I'd see!"