The Capture of Paul Beck

"For a hundred years, Phil."

"Not quite so long as that, I hope," he cried ruefully, and they both laughed, for it is hard to kill hope in the young. "Did I tell you that your father would give his consent if I had one hundred thousand pounds?"

"But you haven't, dear?"

"But I might make it. Abe Lamman told me that he sometimes makes a hundred thousand in a week."

"Oh! Abe Lamman!"

There was thorough dislike and contempt in the three words. She couldn't say more in a long speech.

"I don't want you to like him, darling. Indeed, I'd much prefer you didn't, all things considered. But he has been a good friend to me and may give me a useful hint."

"Don't trust him, Phil."

"So far and no further than I have reason to. Don't you be afraid, Norma. I fancy I know my way about as well as Abe. Wish me good luck and good-bye."

That good-bye was a very long and complicated business, but it ended at last. As the street door closed behind him the