* * * * *
The chief clerk and two bank messengers were waiting by the automobile
with written calls for help from the office. They pounced upon the
banker and almost lifted him into the car.
"There's still time!" panted the chief clerk.
"There is not!" answered Mr. Thorndike. His tone was rebellious,
defiant. It carried all the authority of a spoiled child of fortune.
"I've wasted most of this day," he declared, "and I intend to waste the
rest of it. Andrews," he called, "jump in, and I'll give you a lunch at
Sherry's."
The vigilant protector of the public dashed back into the building.
"Wait till I get my hat!" he called.
As the two truants rolled up the avenue the spring sunshine warmed them,
the sense of duties neglected added zest to their holiday, and young Mr.
Andrews laughed aloud.
Mr. Thorndike raised his eyebrows inquiringly.
"I was wondering," said Andrews, "how much it cost you to keep Spear out
of jail?"
"I don't care," said the great man guiltily; "it was worth it."
A CHARMED LIFE
She loved him so, that when he went away to a little war in which his
country was interested she could not understand, nor quite forgive.
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