life to safe Finch's? He took excited turns on the narrow space of the bridge.
"If only I could get at it!"
"I hope," said Eden, "that you're not being stirred by any ridiculous sentiment—gratitude. You know how I hate the idea of that."
"But how can I help it?"
"Just don't let yourself. As Gran used to say, 'I won't have it!'"
Finch burst into loud laughter. He was almost beside himself with excitement. He had got an idea. A marvellous, a gorgeous idea! He stopped in front of Eden and grinned hilariously into his face.
"I have it! I can get the money for you! I'm sure I can."
Eden was regarding him with his odd, veiled gaze. "How could you possibly?" His tone was weary, but his heart was beating quickly. Was it possible that he was going to be able to save his face? Not going to be forced to suggest ways and means to the youngster?
"Why, it's like this," jerked out Finch, breathlessly. "There's my friend, Arthur Leigh! He's got any amount of money. He's of age and he's in control of a fair-sized fortune already. He'd lend it to me. I'd give him my note—with good interest, you know—then I'd be able to fix you up with just what you want!" Finch's face was scarlet; he had run his hands through his hair, standing it on end; his tie was gone askew; he had never looked wilder, less like a philanthropist.
Eden's eyes lighted, but he shook his head almost gloomily. "It sounds feasible enough, but I can't do it."
"Why?" Finch was thunderstruck.
"What would they say—the others? Renny'd never stand for it. He's putting up the money for California, and he thinks there's nothing more to be said."
"He need never know. No one need know, but ourselves—and Leigh. And I'll not let Leigh know what I want the money for. Oh, he's the most casual fellow you ever saw! He'd never ask a question. Just say, 'All right, Finch, here's your money!' and stuff my
