"How's that?" Barton could not help asking, with a momentary sense of
chagrin. But the next moment he added, in a milder tone, "I don't mean
to pry into your business."

"I shall very likely have to use my money soon," Gilbert explained, "and
must at least wait until I hear from Chester. That will be another week,
and then, if the money should not be wanted, I can accommodate you. But,
to tell you the truth, I don't think there's much chance of that"

"Shall you have to go down to Chester?"

"I hope so."

"When?"

"In ten or twelve days from now."

"Then," said Barton, "I 'II fix it this way. 'Tisn't only the money I
want, but to have it paid in Chester, without the old man or Stacy
knowing anything of the matter. If I was to go myself, Stacy'd never
rest till he found out my business--Faith! I believe if I was hid in
the hayloft o' the William Penn Tavern, he'd scent me out. Now, I can
get the money of another fellow I know, if you'll take it down and hand
it over for me. Would you be that obliging?"

"Of course," Gilbert answered. "If I go it will be no additional
trouble."

"All right," said Barton, "between ourselves, you understand."