On the whole, however, he did not think the fellow meant
to victimize him in this way, though he was perhaps willing that Foster
should suspect him of such a plan. If so, it might be better to
indulge him.

"As a rule, I have a use for all the money I've got," he remarked.
"Still if I could find a lot that was bound to go up----"

The other followed the lead and talked about city extension and the
development of the neighboring land. He seemed to know his subject,
and Foster was beginning to think his suspicions mistaken when Telford
carelessly interpolated a few adroit questions about his usual
occupation. The questions were difficult to answer without telling
more than it was advisable that the other should know, or, what was
equally to be avoided, showing that Foster was on his guard. He was
now nearly sure that the fellow was an accomplice of Daly's, and the
line he had resolved on would be difficult.

He had to deal with a clever rogue who probably knew something about
him and meant to find out more. In consequence, there was no use in
trying to pose as an unsophisticated simpleton; he must, so to speak,
play up to the fellow and persuade him that any suspicions he
entertained were about the latter's designs upon his money. With this
object, he disputed some of Telford's opinions and presently proved a
statement of his wrong.

Telford looked embarrassed and Foster thought he did it very well.

"Perhaps I was putting it a bit too high, but the deal ought to turn
out a snap if you can wait a while," he said, and laughed. "Anyhow
I've got to give you bedrock facts after the way you caught me out.
Say, you're pretty smart!"

"You're apt to get stung over a land deal unless you're careful,"
Foster modestly replied.

It was a relief when Telford said they would stop talking business and
proposed a visit to a bar. Foster felt mentally exhausted and thought
a drink would brace him. He did not see Telford at dinner and kept out
of his way during the afternoon, but the man came into the dining-room
when supper was served. The room was large and furnished with separate
tables, but Foster thought he knew the faces of the regular customers
and noticed that a stranger sat at a table by himself.

Telford made for this table, which seemed natural, since there was most
room there, but a few moments afterwards the man whom Foster suspected
of watching him left his place. Crossing the floor carelessly, but in
s