In one sense, that puts us ten thousand miles apart.
But in another sense, we'll say that we like each other,
and that there are ways in which we can be of immense
use to each other, and that brings us close together.
You need money--and here it is for you. I need--what
shall I say?--a kind of friendly lead in the matter
of establishing myself on the right footing, among the
right people--and that's what you can do for me.
Mind--I'd prefer to put it all in quite another way;
I'd like to say it was all niceness on your part,
all gratitude on mine. But if you want to consider it on
a business basis--why there you have it also--perfectly plain
and clear."
He got up as he finished, and Lord Plowden rose as well.
The two men shook hands in silence.
When the latter spoke, it was to say: "Do you know
how to open one of those soda-water bottles? I've tried,
but I can never get the trick. I think I should like
to have a drink--after this."
When they had put down their glasses, and the younger man
was getting into his great-coat, Thorpe bestowed the brandy
and cigars within a cabinet at the corner of the room,
and carefully turned a key upon them.
"If you're going West, let me give you a lift,"
said Lord Plowden, hat in hand. "I can set you down
wherever you like. Unfortunately I've to go out to dinner,
and I must race, as it is, to get dressed.
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