M McDonnell Bodkin

The Capture of Paul Beck M McDonnell Bodkin

Book Excerpt: ... "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 ...