Mr. Vane let go of the arm contemptuously.
“I've done dirty work for the Northeastern for a good many years,” cried Mr. Tooting, seemingly gaining confidence now that he was free; “I've slaved for 'em, and what have they done for me? They wouldn't even back me for county solicitor when I wanted the job.”
“Turned reformer, Ham?”
“I guess I've got as much right to turn reformer as some folks I know.”
“I guess you have,” agreed the Honourable Hilary; unexpectedly. He seated himself on a chair, and proceeded to regard Mr. Tooting in a manner extremely disconcerting to that gentleman. This quality of impenetrability, of never being sure when he was angry, had baffled more able opponents of Hilary Vane than Mr. Hamilton Tooting.
“Good-night, Ham.”
“I want to say—” Mr. Tooting began.
“Good-night, Ham,” said Mr. Vane, once more.
Mr. Tooting looked at him, slowly buttoned up his overcoat, and departed.