Paul moved awkwardly toward the door. He wanted to add some word to conceal how worried, angry, and upset he really was, but he could think of nothing to say. It was ignominious to pass out of the room as if he were a whipped puppy. Men always terminated their business talks pleasantly, no matter how vexed they were with one another underneath.
He must show Mr. Carter that he also could close an interview in true man's fashion. His hand was on the knob of the door now; but he turned.
"Oh, by the way, Mr. Carter," he said with an off-hand air, "do you know where a person goes to sell a Liberty Bond?"
It was the only topic of conversation he could think of.
"Sell one?"
"Yes, sir." The boy blushed.
"In need of cash?"
"I—yes; I'm thinking of getting rid of a fifty-dollar bond I have."
"That's foolish. You'd much better keep it."
Paul shook his head with sudden resolve.