There were tears in the Captain's eyes. “That's all right--I'm obliged to you. But I guess it's time to quit now while we're shut down and you have a good chance to look around for somebody else. There's only one thing that's been bothering me. Do you think you're going to have a place for George?” “I'm sure of it. He's going to make a good man before he gets through with it.” “I'm glad you think so. I must tell Jennie--it'll please her. And say--here's a little something--George says he's owed you three-fifty for a long while. He's managed to save it up now, and he wanted me to hand it to you.” Halloran had to think. “Oh, that--that's nothing--I couldn't take it.” “If you don't mind--I think you'd better. And I--I want to say, Mr. Halloran, before I quit you, that it's been a great thing for Mr. Higginson to have you here. I guess there ain't no doubt you've saved his business for him.” This brought the gloom back to the Manager's face. He shook his head. “That's all right now--I've watched the business some. It's your nerve and grit----” “Captain,” Halloran broke in bitterly, “I------” “I guess I know what you mean. You've been carrying a load that would have broke most men, and now you're sort of unstrung.” Halloran shook his head again. “Damn the load.” He looked around the office. Crosman was out; the door was shut. “Captain, I've lost the girl I want to marry, for want of nerve.” “Are you sure?” He nodded. “Is she married already?” “Oh, no; she's gone away.” “Where?” “Down East. She didn't leave word.” “And she ain't married anybody else? Then she ain't lost. Why don't you go after her?” “I know. I've thought of that.” “Thinking 'll never do it. You better go.” Halloran looked up and caught the Captain's eye. It was beaming with good-will, and it opened to him a glimpse of a new world. “I believe I will,” he said, holding his breath. “You can get the eleven o'clock on the Père Marquette and connect with the Central Limited to-night at Detroit. I'll take care of the fire department while you're gone.” “Will you?” He caught at the Captain's hand. “Sure. You'd better move right along------Lord, yes, there's only twenty-five minutes, and it'll take you most of that to get home and pack. I'll call up the livery and have a carriage go right up after you.” “Good. Tell Crosman I've been called East.” “I'll see to everything. Good-by. And say, don't hurry back. Wire your address, and if we need you we'll let you know. Good-by. Good luck.” “Thanks. Good-by.” He was gone with a rush, leaving his desk open behind him.