Tommy's joy over his success was a complex affair. He had a boy's immaturity, but he could think straight enough. His father had done the obvious thing in having the bank's correspondents telegraph confidential reports about the Tecumseh's standing and reputation to New York business men, who would attach greater importance to such information than to Tommy's reports about Thompson, who really was the Tecumseh. Moreover, it was friendship and not eloquence or hard work that had persuaded Colonel Willetts to buy the stock. Thus there could be no sense of personal triumph. At all events, the deal was closed, his work was done, and Thompson's wish would be gratified, and Tommy would do his best to make it a safe investment for Colonel Willetts and his friends. “I am much obliged, Colonel,” he said, trying to speak with the proper composure. “Not to me, Tommy; to--er--Marion. Gad! how that girl boomed Dayton.” The colonel looked quickly at Tommy. Everything else vanished from Tommy's mind, even the great work! He would tell her--But first he must say something to her father. “I hope she--and you--will never be sorry you've done this. It means a lot to me and--” “What commission do you get, Tommy?” asked the colonel, quizzically. “None,” answered Tommy, quickly. “Nonsense! You are entitled to at least two and a half per cent, and more--” “It was a personal favor to me,” said Tommy, “because Mr. Thompson thought I could work better knowing I had interested friends in the company.” The colonel rose to his feet. “Mr. Leigh, I have a favor to ask of you. If you think I am entitled to your protection and good wishes--” He paused and looked questioningly at Tommy. “You are,” said the puzzled Tommy, quite earnestly. “Then keep that damned man Thompson out of New York. Gad! he'd have us paying him for breathing. Now if you don't mind I'll write some letters and sign your check. You can have it certified if you wish.” The colonel rang a bell. Mr. Kendrick appeared. He was a tall, well-built man, neatly dressed in black. “Kendrick, this is Mr. Thomas Leigh. Make out a check for two hundred thousand dollars, payable to the Tecumseh Motor Company, and write a letter to--Got a middle name, Tommy?” “Yes, sir--Francis.” “To Mr. Thomas Francis Leigh, instructing him to have the two thousand shares of Tecumseh Motor Company which he has sold to me put in your name. I shall give instructions as to their disposition later. Good-by, Tommy. Confine your future visits to my residence. You are an expensive luxury down-town, son.” And Colonel Willetts shook hands warmly. “Is he always like that?” Tommy asked Kendrick in the outer office.