“You will always have the satisfaction of knowing that you sacrificed a fortune to a nice sense of honour,” he said cynically.
“I am very sorry that I could not do what you wished,” said Stephen awkwardly. “But I am grateful to you for showing me what you did.”
“Why?” asked Benson curiously.
“Because I understand now just how you must have felt toward me,” he said simply.
“I trust the realization of that is a satisfaction to you,” observed Benson coldly.
“It is,” said Stephen.
“We will go back to Gibbs,” said Benson, rising abruptly.
“Please say good-night to the general for me,” said Stephen rising, too. “I think I will go home.” He held out his hand with frank good feeling. Benson touched it with the tips of his fingers.
“Good-night,” he said.