Hal flung the book from him. But its accusations pursued him through the gates of sleep, and poisoned his rest.
In the morning he had recovered his balance, and with it his dogged determination to see the matter through. He forced himself to read the leading editorial, finding spirit even to admire the dexterity with which he had held out the promise of good behavior to the business interests, whilst pretending to a sturdy independence. Shearson met him at the entrance to the building, beaming.
"That'll bring business," said the advertising manager. "I've had half a dozen telephones already about it."
"That's good," replied Hal half-heartedly.
"Yes, sir," pursued the advertising manager: "I can smell money in the air to-day. And, by the way, I've got a tip that, for a little mild apology, E.M. Pierce will withdraw both his suits."
"I'll think about it," promised Hal. He was rather surprised at the intensity of his own relief from the prospect of the court ordeal. At least, he was getting his price.
McGuire Ellis was, for once, not asleep, though there was no work on his desk when Hal entered the sanctum.
"Veltman's quit," was his greeting.
"I'm not surprised," said Hal.
"Then you've seen the editorial page this morning?"