"The same as yours. I am Harrowby's friend. Now, Mr. Wall, this is the situation as I see it--wanted, board and room in a quiet neighborhood for Mr. George Harrowby. Far from the street-cars, the vaudeville stage, the wedding march and other disturbing elements. And what is more, I think I've found the quiet neighborhood. I think it's right here aboard the _Lileth_." "Oh--indeed!" "Yes. A simple affair to arrange, Mr. Wall. Trimmer and his live proposition are just about due for their final appearance of the night at the opera-house right now. I will call at the stage door and lead Mr. Trimmer away after his little introductory speech. I will keep him away until you and a couple of your sailors--I suggest the two I met so informally in the North River--have met the vaudeville lord at the stage door and gently, but firmly, persuaded him to come aboard this boat." Mr. Wall regarded Minot with a cynical smile. "A clever scheme," he said. "What would you say was the penalty for kidnaping in this state?" "Oh, why look it up?" asked Minot carelessly. "Surely Martin Wall is not afraid of a backwoods constable." "What do you mean by that, my boy?" said Wall, with an ugly stare. "What do you think I mean?" Minot smiled back. "I'd be very glad to take the role I've assigned you--I can't help feeling that it will be more entertaining than the one I have. The difficulty in the way is Trimmer. I believe I am better fitted to engage his attention. I know him better than you do, and he trusts me--begging your pardon--further." "He did give me a nasty dig," said Wall, flaming at the recollection. "The noisy mountebank! Well, my boy, your young enthusiasm has won me. I'll do what I can." "And you can do a lot. Watch me until you see me lead Trimmer away. Then get his pet. I'll steer Trimmer somewhere near the beach, and keep an eye on the _Lileth_. When you get George safely aboard, wave a red light in the bow. Then Trimmer and I shall part company for the night." "I'm on," said Wall, rising. "Anything to help Harrowby. And--this won't be the first time I've waited at the stage door." "Right-o," said Minot. "But don't stop to buy a champagne supper for a trained seal, will you? I don't want to have to listen to Mr. Trimmer all night." They rowed ashore in company with two husky members of the yacht's crew, and ten minutes later Minot was walking with the pompous Mr. Trimmer through the quiet plaza. He had told that gentleman that he came from Allan Harrowby to talk terms, and Trimmer was puffed with pride accordingly. "So Mr. Harrowby has come to his senses at last," he said. "Well, I thought this vaudeville business would bring him round. Although I must say I'm a bit disappointed--down in my heart. My publicity campaign has hardly started. I had so many lovely little plans for the future--say, it makes me sad to win so soon."