and make a fresh start on a new basis and with different management. If there is money anywhere in the hotel business, it ought to be here."
The Colonel thought a few moments.
"Perhaps you are right, Oliver," he concluded at last. "I will do as you say. But I must have that money now, and it will take time to sell anything without loss."
"I will tell you what I am going to do," stated Mills firmly. "I am going to loan you fifteen thousand dollars on a thirty day note; and I am going to tell you right here and now that I am not going to renew or extend it. That will give you plenty of time to make your sale. Is that satisfactory?"
"What security do you want?"
"Your word of honour to raise the money as I suggest. This is a personal transaction."
"Of course I promise, Oliver," returned the Colonel, "and may I be permitted to say this is very handsome of you."
III
Ten minutes later, the Colonel emerged from the bank, his breast pocket bulging. He had taken twelve thousand dollars of the amount in currency.
"I am sorry to be so long, Puss," said he, climbing to his seat. "Hope you have not been too much bored."
They drove rapidly out of town, for these matters had consumed time, and it was now after eleven o'clock. Every few moments the Colonel chuckled aloud. For awhile Daphne made no comment on these outbursts, but finally demanded an explanation:
"What are you laughing at?"
"Nothing, Puss; nothing you would understand."
She fell silent, but after a few more repetitions she burst out indignantly.
"Godpapa," she said severely, "you are acting exactly like a bad boy who has been up to mischief."
"My dear, you must excuse me," apologized the Colonel, "I have done a very difficult thing. I've fooled Oliver Mills."
