Dale established his visitor on a chair that faced the rapidly waning light, and addressed him again with increased deference.
"If you can spare a few minutes, there's a thing I'd like to speak to you about, Mr. Bates."
"I can spare all the minutes between now and morning," said Mr. Bates cordially, "if I can be of the least service to you, William."
As much now as in the beginning of the enterprise Bates held himself at the younger man's disposal, indeed liked nothing better than to give information and counsel whenever his prosperous successor was of a mind to accept either.
"I won't keep you as long as that," said Dale, smiling; "but will you give us the pleasure of your company at supper?"
"You're very kind, William, but I don't think I can."
"Do, Mr. Bates. The wife will be as pleased as me--as I."
The old fellow looked up at Dale hesitatingly; and Dale, looking down at his clean-shaven cheeks, bushy white eyebrows, and the long wisps of white hair brushed across his bald head, felt a great reverence. He would not look at the threadbare shabbiness of the gray cloth suit, or at the queer tints given by time and weather to the black felt hat that was being balanced on two shrunken knees.
"I, ah, don't think I'll present myself before Mrs. Dale--ah, without more preparation than this. Besides, would it not put her out?"
"No, indeed. Quite unceremonious--taking us exactly as you find us--pot-luck."
"Then be it so. You are very good. Thank you, William."
"Thank you, Mr. Bates." Dale seized upon the visitor's hat and stick. "Now you may cut along, Norah, and tell Mrs. Dale that Mr. Bates is kind enough to stay supper--without ceremony."
Norah glided across the office to the inner door, and, going out, asked if she should bring a lamp.
"Yes, bring the lamp in ten minutes--not before. There's light enough for two such old friends to chat together;" and Dale waited until she had shut the door. "Now, sir, this is kind and friendly. Give me your hand, Mr. Bates. I'd like to hold it in mine, while I say these few prelim'nary words."
"Yes, William?" The old man had immediately offered his hand, and he looked up with a puzzled and anxious expression.
"I merely wish to assure you, Mr. Bates, very sincerely, that if you at this moment could see right into my heart, you'd plainly see my respect, and what is more, my true affection for you, sir."