"That's good. It occurred to me that it might clear the atmosphere here a bit if you went away for a time. What do you say to McLean's for a couple of weeks?" On Armstrong's face the red of a moment ago changed to white, a white which spread to his very lips. "And take the cure, you mean! Do you think, really, it's as bad with me as that?" "No," bluntly; "I'd have said so if I had. But just because you might not contract pneumonia is no reason for not wearing an overcoat when the thermometer is at zero. I'd go if I were you, just as I'd be vaccinated if there was an epidemic of small-pox prevalent." "But the admission! A confirmed alcoholic!" "Confirmed nothing. Your going is no one's business but your own. The place is a general sanatorium; it's advertised so. Anyway you will have good company. The biggest bondholder in the Traction Company is there now. Do you happen to have the money that you'll need convenient?" "No. That's another rub; and besides--on the square, Darley, I don't need to do that--yet. I know after last night things look bad; but--" "I understand perfectly. Let's not waste ammunition on a man of straw. The change will do you good, though, anyway. I'd go myself for the sake of that big marble plunge if I could spare the time." He was writing a check swiftly. "Pay it back when something drops," he proffered; "there will be something develop soon--there always is. By the way, why not go along with me to-night? It's on the same road." Armstrong accepted the slip of paper mechanically; a real moisture came into his eyes, and he held it back at arm's length. "Darley, confound you," he protested, "I can't accept that. I simply can't!" "Can't--why? It's good. Try it anywhere down town." "You know I don't mean that; but--" "Yes--" The big fingers were twitching ominously. "But after--what's past--" "Wouldn't you make me a loan if positions were reversed?" shortly. "Yes, certainly; but--" "Forget it, then." Roberts turned back to his desk abruptly. "Pardon me if I go on working. I've simply got to clear this desk before I go." He waited in silence until the other man started to leave; just as Armstrong reached the door he wheeled about. "You'll be with me at eleven-fifty sure, won't you?" he asked directly. Armstrong hesitated, his eyes averted. "Yes," he said at last. "Good. I'll attend to the reservations for both of us. Travel East is light now and we'll have things practically to ourselves. There are a number of other things I wish to talk with you about--and we'll have all night to do it in. I suppose you'll see Elice this evening?" Again Armstrong colored. "Yes," he repeated uncertainly. "Tell her, please, for me that I'll be out of town for about three weeks. Meanwhile the car is subject to her order. I left directions at the garage. If it's convenient for you to happen around this way about train time there'll be a cab waiting. Good-bye until then."