"What are you going to do? What do you want with Pudleigh? He's a most dangerous man; you'd much better keep out of his way," said Morton, with some anxiety.
"I have in my mind a little deal I might do with him."
"A little deal he will do you with!" said Morton sharply.
"I think not. I have a great belief in honesty," I said quickly. "Even the astute Albert Amsted Pudleigh must bump his head against it—sometimes."
"You'd much better let him bump his head against some one else's honesty. He doesn't bump it often."
"My honesty is harder than most people's. It will hurt him more."
"You're such an obstinate beggar. But I do wish you'd listen to me just this once, and leave Pudleigh alone," said Morton, almost fretfully.
"It's very good of you to be so anxious about me, but I'll be careful," I said, rising.
"Much better let it alone. But there, he can't do you much harm. You haven't enough to lose for him."
"What I have is very precious to me," I said. "Good-by, old chap, many thanks for your information."
"I wish it had been a couple of briefs," said
