His mind was instantly alive with suspicions tumbling over each other in chaotic incoherency. There was a deal of some kind on foot. Jeff's cousin was in it. Then Jeff must be playing him for a sucker. His teeth set with a snap.
Meanwhile Big Tim was having a heart to heart talk with James K. Farnum.
The young lawyer had risen in surprise at the entrance of O'Brien. The big fellow, laughing easily, had helped himself to a chair.
“Make yourself at home, Tim,” he said jauntily.
“Anything I can do for you, Mr. O'Brien?” James asked with stiff dignity.
“Sure. Or I wouldn't be here. Sit down. I'll not bite ye.”
The lawyer continued to stand.
“I've come to tell you that I'm a dammed fool, Mr. Farnum,” the boss grinned.
James bowed slightly. He did not know what was coming, but he had no intention of committing himself to anything as yet.
“In ever lettin' youse get away from me. I mistook yez for a kid glove.”