— XX —THE ATTACK WHICH FAILED
Mr. Smithers opened the interview by ignoring the singularity of his visitor’s bearing.
“I believe, Mr. Ludlow, that it is no use my offering you anything. You expressed your views on tobacco and what you called ‘alcohol’ on a previous occasion.”
“I did. And in any case, were I the most bibulous of men, I should decline to drink with you, as you are well aware!”
“Why should I be aware of it?”
“Men in my position do not hobnob with a thief.”
“I fancy, Mr. Ludlow, that men in your position do and say rather funny things.”
“They have to, when they are brought into contact with such a character as you. When I look at you, and observe the air of brazen assurance which clothes you as with a garment, I am lost in wonder as to the hidden purpose which actuates
