"It matters little to me what you or others say, but much what they
do. My action shall be based upon yours and Miss Edith's. I have
learned in your employ the value of promptness in all business
matters. I hope you understand me."

"I do, sir, but there can be no indecent haste in these matters. In
gaining the important position--in assuming the relations you desire--
there should be some show of dignity, otherwise society would be
disgusted, and you would lose the respect which should follow such
vast acquirements."

"Where I can secure the whole cloth, I shall not worry about the
selvage of etiquette and passing opinion," was Mr. Fox's cynical
reply.

Mr. Allen could not prevent an expression of intense disgust from
coming out upon his face, and he replied with some heat:

"Well, sir, something is due to my own position, and I cannot treat my
daughter like a bale of cloth, as you suggest in your figurative
speech. However," he added, warily, "I will take the necessary steps
as soon as possible, and will trespass upon your time no longer."

As Mr. Fox glided out of the office with his sardonic smile, Mr. Allen
felt for the moment that he would rather become bankrupt than make
terms with him.

Meanwhile the month of February was rapidly passing, though each day
was an age of anxiety and suspense to Mr. Allen. The tension was too
much for him, and he evidently aged and failed under it. He drank more