"Accidents," said Oldham, speaking slowly and judicially, "are always
likely to happen. Sometimes they can't be helped." He paused to let
these words sink in.
Saleratus Bill wrinkled his eyes in an appreciative laugh. "Accidents is
of two kinds: lucky and unlucky," he remarked briefly, by way of
parenthesis.
"But, of course, it is distinctly understood," went on Oldham, as though
he had not heard, "that this is your own affair. You have nothing to
expect from me if you get into trouble. And if you mention my name,
you'll merely get jugged for attempted blackmail."
Saleratus Bill's eyes flared.
"Cut it," said he, with a rasp in his voice.
"Nevertheless, that is the case," repeated Oldham, unmoved.
The flame slowly died from Saleratus Bill's eyes.
"I'll want a little raise for that kind of a job," said he.
"Naturally," agreed Oldham.
They entered into discussion of ways and means.
In the meantime Bob had encountered an old friend.
XXV
Bob always stayed at the Monterosa Hotel when in town; a circumstance
that had sent Oldham to the Buena Vista. Although it wanted but a few
hours until train time, he drifted around to his customary stopping
place, resolved to enjoy a quiet smoke by the great plate-glass windows
before which the ever-varying theatre crowds stream by from Main Street
cars.
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