Page:The Works of H G Wells Volume 8.djvu/199

 From that point their course ran swift and easy. "If I could be of any use to you," said Coote

"But you're so busy and all that."

"Not too busy. You know, your case is a very interesting one. It was partly that made me speak to you and draw you out. Here you are with all this money and no experience, a spirited young chap"

"That's jest it," said Kipps.

"I thought I'd see what you were made of, and I must confess I've rarely talked to anyone that I've found quite so interesting as you have been"

"I seem able to say things to you like, somehow," said Kipps.

"I'm glad. I'm tremendously glad."

"I want a Friend. That's it—straight."

"My dear chap, if I"

"Yes, but"

"I want a Friend, too."

"Reely?"

"Yes. You know, my dear Kipps—if I may call you that"

"Go on," said Kipps.

"I'm rather a lonely dog myself. This to-night—I've not had anyone I've spoken to so freely of my Work for months."

"No?"

"Yes. And, my dear chap, if I can do anything to guide or help you"

Coote displayed all his teeth in a kindly tremulous smile and his eyes were shiny. "Shake 'ands," said Kipps, deeply moved, and he and Coote rose and clasped with mutual emotion.