The loss of
his brother had not affected his spirits.
"Quite true," I said.
"You needn't explain," he said. "The women folks say it's all right,
though I don't quite understand it myself."
"I can tell you the story," I said.
"I don't want to hear it," he growled. "I've tried you, and that's
enough for me."
I murmured my appreciation and thanks for his good opinion.
The Wolf waved his hand as a disposal of all acknowledgments, and
growled again:
"Have you any engagements that would keep you from taking the place of
president of the Omega Company?"
I fell back on the chair, speechless.
"There'll be a good salary," he continued. "Well, of course, you
needn't be in a hurry to accept. Take a day to think over it if you
like." The Wolf actually smiled.
"Oh, I don't need any time," I gasped. "I'll take it now."
"Well, you'll have to wait till the directors meet," he said.
I gave him my hearty thanks for the unlooked-for favor.
"To tell you the truth," he said, "it was the doing of the women
folks."
My heart gave a leap at the announcement, for it carried a great deal
more with it than Doddridge Knapp knew.
"I am a thousand times obliged to you--and the ladies," I said.
"Well, I wasn't unwilling," he said indulgently. "In fact, I intended
to do something handsome for you. But there's one condition I must
make."
I looked my inquiry.
"You must not speculate. You haven't got the head for it."
"Thank you," I said.
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