"First rate. That's a thriller all right, Joe! That'll make 'em sit up and take notice. I'll have to work in something new myself if you keep on piling up the stuff."
"Oh, I guess you could do that, Ben."
The "human fish" shook his head.
"No," he said slowly, "I don't know what's the matter with me lately, Joe, but I don't seem to have ambition for anything. I go through my regular stunts, but that's all I want to do. I don't even stay under water as long as I used to, and Jim Tracy was kicking again to-day. He said I'd have to do better, but I don't see how I can. Of course he was nice about it, as he always is, but I know he's disappointed in me."
"Oh, I guess not, Ben. Maybe you'll do better to-night."
"I hope so. Anyhow you'll have a thriller for them."
"You're coming to Helen's party, aren't you?"
"Oh, sure, Joe. I wouldn't miss that. I'm glad she's got some money," and Ben spoke rather despondently.
Joe made arrangements with his helper to look after the special appliances needed for the new trick, and went to supper. He did not see Helen, and guessed that she was still busy with the law clerk.
"I hope she doesn't trust too much to that chap," mused Joe. "I don't just like his looks."