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156 “Now, Dickie,” he began resolutely, as soon as they were seated, “I’m going to quarrel with you. You’re not careful enough of your family. Who is this Tremaine, anyway?”

Delroy regarded the questioner with a long stare of astonishment.

“Why, he’s a mighty pleasant fellow who’s putting through”

“I know all that,” interrupted the other, a little rudely. “But who is he? Where did he come from?”

“He came from St. Pierre”

“Dickie,” said Drysdale impressively, “you’re too easy. You think all men are honest. Have you seen his credentials? Who stands for him?”

Delroy jumped up impatiently.

“See here, Jack,” he demanded, “what is it you’re driving at?”

“I’m trying to point out to you that you’ve taken Tremaine to your bosom a little too hastily,” answered Drysdale bluntly.

Delroy flushed with annoyance.

“Mr. Tremaine,” he said with emphasis, “is one of the most cultured and charming men I ever met. He came to me on a matter of business; I found that we had many tastes in common, and I have enjoyed his society immensely.”

“That’s all right, Dickie. I’ve no objection to your enjoying his society as much as you like. But you oughtn’t to bring him here.”

“Why?” demanded Delroy.

“Because,” answered Drysdale hotly, “he’s making