"I'll figure it just below tunnel prices," Johnny laughingly assured
him. The gray shawl with the pink relief came up just then, and all
four of them immediately bought it for Johnny's sole surviving
mother.





CHAPTER XIV

IN WHICH JOHNNY TRIES TO MIX BUSINESS WITH SKAT




Louis Ersten, who puffed redly wherever he did not grayly bristle,
met Johnny Gamble half-way. Johnny's half consisted in stating that
he had come to see Mr. Ersten in reference to his lease. Mr.
Ersten's half consisted in flatly declining to discuss that subject
on the premises.

"Here--I make ladies' suits," he explained. "If you come about such
a business, with good recommendations from my customers, I talk with
you. Otherwise not."

"I'll talk any place you say," consented Johnny. "Where do you
lunch?"

"At August Schoppenvoll's," replied Mr. Ersten with no hint of an