“Most things can undoubtedly be bought; but not everything,” I replied.
He smiled sadly.
“Of course, neither life nor intellect can be purchased; but the securing of any service from any person capable of performing it is merely a question of money.”
I nodded approbation of this remark, wondering what service he needed at my hands.
“I am quite at my wits’ end, and I require a small service from you,” he said suddenly, as a look of blank, unutterable despair swept over his face. He looked wearied and despondent; I pitied him.
“If I can render you that service I shall be pleased,” I replied.
His face brightened; the haggard expression vanished.
“Thank you,” he said. “It is perhaps a strange request, still I can find many men who will be only too eager to accept my offer.”
“But I am not——”