We became friendly. He
came to me and bought his collars and ties and suspenders."
Kitty found herself retreating from a fury which far outmatched her
own; and as he gained in force, hers dwindled correspondingly.
Thomas continued. "He was well-read, traveled; he interested me. When
the title came, he was first to congratulate me. Gave me my first real
dinner. Naturally I was grateful for this attention. Well, the upshot
of it was, we gambled; and I lost. There was wine. I suggested in the
spirit of madness that I play the use of my title for six months
against the money I had lost. He agreed. And here I am."
His fury evaporated. He sank back into his chair and rested his head
in his hands.
"I ain't a detective," murmured Haggerty, breaking in on the silence
which ensued. "I'm only fit t' chase dagos selling bananas without
licenses. But I'm aching t' see this other chap. I kinda see through
his game. He's going t' interest me a hull lot."
Crawford consulted his watch again. Nine. "Haggerty, suppose you and
I knock the billiard balls around for half an hour?"
"Huh?"
"Half an hour.
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