"I'm a bachelor myself but my observation has been that the successful marriage is based upon compromise, a give and take proposition. Each partner makes concessions for the other's character and whims—and past. If I were you I would call it a day at this minute here at the office and go out and send her the biggest flock of flowers I could find and then hustle up to the Pennsylvania Station and catch the first train to Hedgewood. Tell her all about the Chartres business and your big success and that your worries are over. And show her the check! Money talks to the ladies, Dudley, even when they're in love with you."
Dudley had never thought his uncle's cold gray eyes were capable of the almost affectionate warmth he now saw in them. Why, Sanford Drake was actually embarrassed. "You're the only living relative I have, Dudley," he was saying. "I'll admit you've touched me in a weak spot by making good in business the way you have and probably if you'd turned out to be a dub I'd have disowned you. But I'm very fond of you, my boy—and it's your own personality as well as this Chartres business that has done the trick. If you ever get into trouble or need help, call on me, will you? Eh? That's good."
By this time Sanford Drake was fumbling with papers, clearing his throat with thunder-
