Tip O'Gorman did not accept the invitation. "I wish I could make you understand," he said slowly, crossing his legs and clasping both hands around a plump knee. "This is a serious matter, Bill."
"Sure it is," asserted Billy. "You're serious. I'm serious. He, she or it is serious. Outside of that, it's a fine, large evening."
"Lookit here, Bill, what's your game?"
"Game? What game are you talking about?"
"What do you want? What are you after, anyway?"
Billy made swimming motions with his arms and hands. "Paddle out, paddle out. You're over my head and getting deeper."
"Are you trying to give me the double-cross?" inquired Tip.
"Now why should I do a fool thing like that?"
"I don't know. I'm asking."
"What makes you think I'm giving you the double-cross?"